- #1
tt101
- 6
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What helps reduce aerodynamic drag better wheels inside or outside in reference to the above designs? please help.
Tire Placement for Aerodynamic Drag Reduction: Inside vs. Outside Designs
In summary, the discussion revolved around whether wheels placed inside or outside a car's design would help reduce aerodynamic drag better. It was mentioned that placing the wheels outside could potentially decrease frontal area and reduce drag, but having them covered could also reduce drag. A calculator was suggested as a quick way to make initial estimations. The conversation was in reference to a project being worked on.
What helps reduce aerodynamic drag better wheels inside or outside in reference to the above designs? please help.
- #2
berkeman
Mentor
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tt101 said:
What helps reduce aerodynamic drag better wheels inside or outside in reference to the above designs? please help.
What do you think? What research & reading have you done so far? Is this question for schoolwork, or are you designing such a car for yourself?
- #3
tt101
- 6
- 0
yes this is for a project I am working on. According to my knowledge tires outside should be better since the frontal area reduces as compared to when the tires are placed inside. As the area increases the opposition also increases. But also the tires being covered reduces drag over the tires. thus the confusion.
- #4
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Look at this calculator (and the theory at the bottom of the page). It's not as precise as a CFD analysis, but it is a lot faster for first approximations.
FAQ: Tire Placement for Aerodynamic Drag Reduction: Inside vs. Outside Designs
1. What is the ideal placement for tires on a vehicle?
The ideal placement for tires on a vehicle depends on the type of vehicle and the purpose it serves. Generally, for a standard passenger car, the ideal placement is to have two tires in the front and two in the back, evenly spaced and aligned with the vehicle's center of gravity.
2. How does tire placement affect drag on a vehicle?
Tire placement can significantly affect the drag on a vehicle. Having tires that are too far apart or too close together can increase drag and decrease fuel efficiency. The ideal placement allows for the smoothest airflow around the vehicle, reducing drag and improving performance.
3. Can changing the tire placement on a vehicle improve its handling?
Yes, changing the tire placement on a vehicle can improve its handling. The placement of the tires affects the vehicle's weight distribution, which can impact its stability and handling. By adjusting the tire placement, the weight can be distributed more evenly, improving handling and overall performance.
4. What factors should be considered when determining tire placement?
When determining tire placement, several factors should be considered, including the vehicle's weight and size, the type of tires being used, and the intended purpose of the vehicle. Additionally, the terrain and weather conditions should also be taken into account, as they can affect the vehicle's performance and handling.
5. How can tire placement be optimized for different driving conditions?
Tire placement can be optimized for different driving conditions by adjusting the alignment and pressure of the tires. For example, for off-road driving, wider tires with lower pressure and a wider placement may provide better traction. On the other hand, for highway driving, narrower tires with higher pressure and a closer placement may improve fuel efficiency and handling.