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Computational Fluid Dynamics in Mechanical Engineering

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Special Issue Editors

Dr. Paulo A. S. F. Silva

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Guest Editor

School of Aerospace, Transport and Manufacturing, Cranfield University, Cranfield MK43 0AL, UK
Interests: computational fluid dynamics; rotor flows; thermal management; multiphase flow

Dr. Panagiotis Tsoutsanis

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Guest Editor

School of Aerospace, Transport and Manufacturing, Cranfield University, Cranfield MK43 0AL, UK
Interests: computational fluid dynamics; computing, simulation & modelling; vehicle aerodynamics

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are pleased to invite you to contribute to this Special Issue, entitled “Computational Fluid Dynamics in Mechanical Engineering”, in the Applied Sciences journal. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) has emerged as a cornerstone methodology in modern mechanical engineering, transforming how researchers and practitioners address complex fluid flow challenges. Recent developments in computational power, numerical algorithms, and multiphysics integration have significantly expanded the capabilities and applications of CFD. Despite these substantial advancements, critical challenges remain in relation to accurately modeling turbulent flows, capturing multiscale phenomena, and efficiently coupling fluid dynamics with heat transfer, structural mechanics, and other physical processes. The relevance of addressing these challenges is magnified by increasing demands for energy-efficient designs, sustainable engineering solutions, and optimized industrial processes across various sectors.

This Special Issue aims to highlight state-of-the-art research in computational fluid dynamics and its applications within mechanical engineering disciplines. We welcome contributions that present innovative methods, novel algorithms, and practical applications that advance the field of CFD. The scope of this Special Issue covers both fundamental theoretical developments and applied research, including aerospace systems, automotive engineering, energy conversion, HVAC systems, manufacturing processes, and biomedical applications. This Special Issue aligns with Applied Sciences’ scope by connecting theoretical advancements with practical applications, emphasizing the multidisciplinary nature of modern engineering research, as well as showcasing technological innovations that address contemporary challenges in mechanical engineering.

In this Special Issue, original research articles and reviews are welcome. Research areas may include (but are not limited to) the following:

Advanced turbulence modeling and simulation techniques.
Multiphase and multicomponent flow simulations.
Fluid–structure interaction in engineering applications.
High-performance computing and GPU acceleration for CFD.
Machine learning and AI integration with computational fluid dynamics.
Thermal management and heat transfer optimization using CFD.
Novel numerical methods and algorithm development for fluid simulation.
Validation and verification methodologies for CFD models.
Industrial applications of CFD in energy systems, aerospace, and manufacturing.
Environmental and sustainable engineering applications of CFD.

I look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Paulo A. S. F. Silva
Dr. Panagiotis Tsoutsanis
Guest Editors

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Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

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Research

19 pages, 10875 KB

Open AccessArticle

CFD Analysis of Transition Models for Low-Reynolds Number Aerodynamics

by Enrico Giacomini and Lars-Göran Westerberg

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(18), 10299; https://doi.org/10.3390/app151810299 - 22 Sep 2025

Viewed by 405

Abstract

Low Reynolds number flows are central to the performance of airfoils used in small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), micro air vehicles (MAVs), and aerodynamic platforms operating in rarefied atmospheres. Consequently, a deep understanding of airfoil behavior and accurate prediction of aerodynamic performance are essential for the optimal design of such systems. The present study employs Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations to analyze the aerodynamic performance of a cambered plate at a Reynolds number of 10,000. Two Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) turbulence models,

γ

–

R e_{θ}

and

k - k_{L} - ω

, are utilized, along with the Unsteady Navier–Stokes (UNS) equations. The simulation results are compared against experimental data, with a focus on lift, drag, and pressure coefficients. The models studied perform moderately well at small angles of attack. The

γ

–

R e_{θ}

model yields the lowest lift and drag errors (below 0.17 and 0.04, respectively), while the other models show significantly higher discrepancies, particularly in lift prediction. The

γ

–

R e_{θ}

model demonstrates good overall accuracy, with notable deviation only in the prediction of the stall angle. In contrast, the

k - k_{L} - ω

model and the UNS equations capture the general flow trend up to stall but fail to provide reliable predictions beyond that point. These findings indicate that the

γ

–

R e_{θ}

model is the most suitable among those tested for low Reynolds number transitional flow simulations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Fluid Dynamics in Mechanical Engineering)

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