Optimal surface texture for drag reduction in rolling body flows. This project aims to develop optimised surfaces which minimise the drag experienced by a body rolling on a wall in a fluid. The force

Description

Optimal surface texture for drag reduction in rolling body flows. This project aims to develop optimised surfaces which minimise the drag experienced by a body rolling on a wall in a fluid. The force applied to the body by the surrounding fluid exhibits a surprising dependence on surface texture, which is not well understood. This project will develop innovative new models to understand how the details of surface texture, such as the size, shape and distribution of roughness elements, influence the fluid forces and subsequent motion of the body. These models will be used to develop optimal surface textures to minimise drag. The benefits of this project include substantially improved modelling of sediment transport in industrial and natural flows, and significant reduction of friction in roller bearings.. Scheme: Discovery Early Career Researcher Award. Field: 4012 - Fluid Mechanics and Thermal Engineering. Lead: Dr Stephen Terrington