Ngo, Uy Truong (2023) Numerical simulation on the Aerodynamic performance of a semi-trailer tanker under crosswinds. [USQ Project]
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Abstract
The liquid transportation industry relies heavily on road tankers to transport hazardous and non-hazardous liquids efficiently and safely, playing a pivotal role in the global economy. However, road tankers face a significant challenge due to aerodynamic resistance, resulting in high fuel consumption rates compared to passenger vehicles (ABS 2020).
Previous studies have shown that installing aerodynamic devices, such as side skirts and gap fairings, significantly reduces drag forces under headwinds. However, generating aerodynamic resistance, or drag force, during crosswind scenarios presents a substantial risk, potentially leading to accidents such as rollovers, sideslips, and rotations. This risk is particularly elevated for vehicles transporting hazardous materials, as road tankers carry unfixed loads, possessing significant size, weight, and a high centre of gravity. These crosswind-induced accidents can be catastrophic and may lead to explosions or fires (Batista & Perkovič 2014).
This research investigates methods to improve semitrailer tankers' aerodynamic performance and stability when subjected to crosswind conditions. The study encompasses comprehensive simulations and analysis, focusing on the impact of various aerodynamic devices and design modifications on the vehicle's behaviour.
The research begins with headwind and crosswind simulations, encompassing wind angles ranging from 15 to 90 degrees. Results indicate that adding specific aerodynamic enhancements, such as tractor side skirts, tractor-trailer gap fairings, and trailer side skirts, substantially reduces the drag coefficient by up to 18%, aligning with prior research findings.
Safety assessments highlight the potential increase in lateral drag and the rotational and rollover moments caused by these enhancements, particularly at wind angles of 15 and 30 degrees, posing challenges to vehicle stability. The analysis concludes that the aerodynamic tanker is unlikely to experience sideslip, rotation, or rollover accidents under typical crosswind conditions. However, the increased lateral drag and yawing moments should be carefully considered.
A pre-optimization study emphasizes the critical importance of side skirts, precisely the design issues contributing to flow separation and increased rotational moments. Proposed
modifications involve repositioning and redesigning side skirts to mitigate these effects while maintaining compliance with safety regulations and standards. Simulations indicate significant reductions in rotational moments and axial drag coefficients under crosswind conditions at 15 and 30 degrees, significantly enhancing stability and predictability.
The research offers valuable insights into optimizing aerodynamic devices to enhance vehicle stability and safety in crosswind conditions. The choice between the original and
modified aerodynamic tanker configurations should align with specific operational requirements and lateral and yawing stability considerations.
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| Item Type: | USQ Project |
|---|---|
| Item Status: | Live Archive |
| Faculty/School / Institute/Centre: | Current – Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences - School of Engineering (1 Jan 2022 -) |
| Supervisors: | Sharifian-Barforoush, Ahmad |
| Qualification: | Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) |
| Date Deposited: | 30 Sep 2025 05:06 |
| Last Modified: | 30 Sep 2025 05:06 |
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | semi-trailer; aerodynamic resistance |
| URI: | https://sear.unisq.edu.au/id/eprint/52982 |
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