Laminar Vs. Turbulent Flow
By: Anuj Gandhi
Types Of Flow
Laminar Flow
Turbulent Flow
Bullet
A bullet is very aerodynamic because it is created for speed which can give a result of a painful impact. Notice how the the air is easily travelling around the bullet in a smooth manner creating almost no eddies. This is a great example for Laminar flow.
Aircraft Flaps
The flaps of an aircraft are great examples of turbulent flow, because when turning, descending, slowing and rising, the flaps intentionally change to create turbulence to help the do the desired functions. For example, when a plane lands, the speed brakes are usually engaged and the flaps rise. This creates turbulence to slow the plane down faster.
F1 Race car
An F1 race car is also a very good example of Laminar flow. Notice how the shape is very low and smooth. This can cause very little amount of eddies and a great amount of speed, not to mention that there is very little space under the race car, which is great because only a little amount of air can get trapped beneath the car. Like aircraft flaps, this F1 race car also has a foil which lifts off to create turbulence (intentionally) so that the vehicle can slow down much faster when needed.