REFLECTOR: Gap Seals, fences, zig-zag tape

[Al Gietzen]

I heard an explanation once, I think it was from Klaus, and my recollection
is it's because with the spanwise flow corrected, the wing generates lift
more efficiently, and thus can fly slightly faster at the same
angle-of-attack, or similarly climb better.

 

Good point. Better flow (lower pressure) above the wing could add lift.

Vortilons, fences, and VGs are all aimed at basically the same issue.  The
vortilons are intended to generate a vortex over the top of the wing at high
angles of attack to reduce flow separation, which could/should reduce
span-wise flow under the separation.  VGs provide more, smaller vortices
(and thereby more effective means) to help keep the flow attached, and a
fence attacks the span-wise flow directly, but are probably not much help
regarding flow searation.  

 

In theory, the vortilons and fences cause near zero drag at cruise speeds,
whereas the VGs may slow you down couple of knots. It could be that the VGs
obviate the need for both vortilons and fences, or at least the votilons.

 

Good luck with your testing.  Should be interesting.

 

Al

 

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