Session: 06-01-02: General Aerospace-2

Paper Number: 171616

Aerodynamic Study of Boeing 737-800 Using Computational Fluid Dynamics Techniques 

In this study, the aerodynamics of the Boeing 737-800 aircraft are investigated through Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) using ANSYS Fluent solver in ANSYS Workbench 2024R1, which offered detailed insights for specific scenarios into flow characteristics and turbulence properties around the aircraft. The fidelity and accuracy of computational models are established through comparisons and analysis.

The study focuses on the flow characteristics and turbulence properties around the aircraft, lift force, drag force, and the drag polar of the aircraft with different angles of attack. Field data collected from pilots of Boeing 737 are used to benchmark the CFD results. Model validation was done using the ONERA M6 wing, a standard NASA model with published data and results. Once the validation was done, the Boeing 737-800 CAD model was created. A refined mesh was created with a y-Plus value of less than 10. Mesh independence was verified. Different turbulence models were tried, and K-  SST was determined to be ideal for the study. The boundary conditions are set for the cruise condition with a Mach number of 0.7708 at an altitude of 36,000 ft. This study reasonably compared the drag polar with the literature results and the lift-to-drag ratio (Cl/Cd) with pilot data. The pilot data indicates a Cl/Cd value of 13.45, while our CFD results yield 13.49 at an angle of attack (AoA) of 2.5 degrees. Cl and Cd increase with AoA within the range in the present study, which is expected. A normal shock was observed on the upper surface of the wing, which is expected to happen for a Mach number more than a critical value of ~0.75.

This research establishes an approach and computational models capable of estimating the aerodynamic characteristics of the Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Based on the findings of this study, the following tasks are planned to enhance future research and practical applications in aerodynamic optimization:

1.       Further Investigation of Advanced Wing Configurations
Future research should explore additional wing modifications, such as truss-braced or blended wings, to improve aerodynamic efficiency and reduce drag.

2.       Incorporation of Experimental Validation
While computational analyses provide valuable insights, wind tunnel experiments and flight tests should be conducted to validate CFD results and refine simulation models.

3.       Investigation of Alternative Propulsion Systems
With the push for zero-emission aviation, further studies should assess the impact of novel propulsion systems, such as ammonia-based engines, on aircraft aerodynamics.

4.       Extended Flight Conditions and Operational Scenarios
Future studies should consider a broader range of flight conditions, including high-altitude and transonic regimes, to ensure the robustness of the proposed aerodynamic modifications.

These recommendations aim to build upon the current findings and contribute to the ongoing advancement of sustainable and efficient aircraft design.

Presenting Author: Md Rahman Tennessee State University

Presenting Author Biography: Md Rahman received his BS in Mechanical Engineering from the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology. He finished his Master's in Engineering from Tennessee State University in May 2025. Currently, he is a PhD student at Tennessee State University.

Authors:

Muhammad Akbar Tennessee State University
Md Rahman Tennessee State University
Aung Myat Tennessee State University
Bruce Jo Tennessee Technological University
Achintya Saha Tennessee Technological University