Drag reduction on textured carbon fibre surfaces

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The present research proposal addresses the fundamental flow physics associated with the production of skin friction drag and pressure drag on rotating and translating carbon fibre surfaces. The primary motivation is to provide the sponsoring organization, Kazak Group Inc., with a recommended surface modification which may reduce skin friction within the turbulent boundary layer on a bicycle wheel rim, while simultaneously delaying stall conditions at high angles of attack to the wind. Energylab Inc. has developed a process for creating patterned finishes on carbon fibre surfaces (i.e., riblet mimicry), which could be applicable to a wide range of engineering applications. This research project will be carried out via experimental wind tunnel testing in the applicants laboratory. A wheel test stand must be constructed in order to enable full scale wheels to be inserted into the test section and rotated at a constant angular speed while experimental measurements take place. The proposed research has the potential to generate intellectual property pertaining to the optimal design micro-scale riblets for reducing drag on rotating and translating carbon fibre surfaces, for which there are numerous applicable engineering applications.