Aerodynamic Analysis of a Vehicle Tanker

Abstract

The aim of this article is the presentation of a series of aerodynamic improvements for semitrailer tankers, which reduce the aerodynamic resistance of these vehicles, and, consequently, result in a positive impact on fuel consumption, which is substantially reduced (up to 11%). To make the analysis the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methodology, using FLUENT , has been used since it allows simulating some geometries and modifications of the geometry without making physical prototypes that considerably increase the time and the economical resources needed. Three improvements are studied: the aerodynamic front, the undercarriage skirt, and the final box adaptor. First they are studied in isolation, so that the independent contribution of each improvement can be appreciated, while helping in the selection of the most convenient one. With the aerodynamic front the drag coefficient has a reduction of 6.13%, with the underskirt 9.6%, and with the boat tail 7.72%. Finally, all the improvements are jointly examined, resulting in a decrease of up to 23% in aerodynamic drag coefficient.