Numerical Simulation of the Flow in Wheel Systems

In order to spread market opportunities, Volkswagen do Brasil Ltda - Truck and Bus Operation has adopted in conjunction with T-Systems do Brasil Ltda computer-aided analysis techniques that have been revolutionized engineering design in several important areas, notably in the optimization of systems where heat transfer and fluid flow are present. The main goal is to reduce the lead time to develop a new system and to obtain a better understanding of the physical aspects of the phenomenon involved.

The proposed paper aims to present the numerical simulation of the flow around two wheel systems, for a new Volkswagen Truck. The main practical application of this investigation is to evaluate the air flow assessment in the region of the brake system and determine flow rate and global heat transfer coefficient. With this study, it is possible to decide which wheel system is more efficient from the brake refrigeration point of view.