Large-eddy simulation of low-reynolds-number flow over thick and thin NACA airfoils

In this study, the flowfields around NACA0012 and NACA0002 airfoils at Reynolds number of 23,000 and the aerodynamic characteristics of these flowfields were analyzed using implicit large-eddy simulation and laminar-flow simulation. Around this Reynolds number, the flow over an airfoil separates, transits, and reattaches, resulting in the generation of a laminar separation bubble at the angle of attack in a certain degree range. Over an NACA0012 airfoil, the separation point moves toward its leading edge with an increasing angle of attack, and the separated flow may transit to create a short bubble. On the other hand, over an NACA0002 airfoil, the separation point is kept at its leading edge, and the separated flow may transit to create a long bubble. Moreover, nonlinearity appears in the lift curve of the NACA0012 airfoil, but not in that of NACA0002, despite the existence of a laminar separation bubble.