Numerical Study of Aerodynamic Flow and the Effects of Spoiler Wings on a Formula Student Race Car

Current work details the preliminary CFD analysis performed on custom-built race car by Team Sakthi Racing team as part of Formula SAE competition using OpenFOAM. The body of the race car is designed in compliance with FSAE regulations, OpenFOAM utilities and solvers are used to generate volumetric mesh and perform CFD analysis. Formula student tracks are typically designed with numerous sharp turns and a few long straights to maintain low speeds for safety. In order to enhance the cars’ performance in sharp turns, the race car should be equipped with aerodynamic devices like nose cone and wings on both the rear and front ends within the confines of the formula student racing rules. Thus, efficient aerodynamic design is highly critical to maximizing tire grip by ensuring consistent contact with the track, reducing the risk of skidding, and maintaining control, especially during high-speed maneuvers. In this work, the performance and behavior of the race car, both with and without the impacts of wing installation, are determined by the aerodynamic drag and downward forces as the flow passes over it. In conclusion, this preliminary analysis highlights the improved downward force due to the adoption of wings on both front and rear side of the vehicle.