How to calculate reynold number?

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Zainab Nawaz

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May 3, 2023, 9:27:12 AM5/3/23
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Hi, I need to find Reynold's number using vspaero, but I'm really at a loss. Can you please walk me through the process? Would really appreciate it.

Luka Ranđelović

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May 3, 2023, 10:28:48 AM5/3/23
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Easiest way is to use the parasite drag tool. Once you have your geometry, you open the parasite drag tool, enter you speed, other flight and atmospheric conditions being careful to use the correct units, and the parasite tool calculates the Reynolds number for each body - Wing, HTP, VTP, fuselage, etc.

Kind regards,
Luka

On Wed, 3 May 2023 at 15:27, Zainab Nawaz <zainab....@gmail.com> wrote:
Hi, I need to find Reynold's number using vspaero, but I'm really at a loss. Can you please walk me through the process? Would really appreciate it.

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Zainab Nawaz

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May 3, 2023, 11:21:27 AM5/3/23
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Thanks, I'll definitely try this.

Although, is there any way you can find Reynold's number using vspaero or is this only possible through the parasitic drag tool?

Rob McDonald

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May 3, 2023, 11:26:30 AM5/3/23
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Usually when people use an aerodynamic tool, they calculate Reynolds number themselves and know that value when they come to the aero tool.

The equation for Reynolds number is not complex.  You should be able to apply it to your problem.  There are many online calculators for it -- but I would recommend using a simple hand calculator -- or write yourself a spreadsheet if you need.

Rob


Zainab Nawaz

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May 3, 2023, 12:44:25 PM5/3/23
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Thank you for the help. I'll make sure to look into it.
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