Numerical study on interference effects of the nacelle position on aerodynamic characteristics and nacelle intake performances

Insight into the interference effects of the nacelle position can be used to provide some guidance for achieving better aircraft performance in the preliminary design of modern civil aircraft. This paper investigates the through-flow nacelle position effects on aircraft aerodynamic characteristics and nacelle intake performances through numerical simulation. The Common Research Model with different nacelle-pylon installation positions is analyzed and all the five nacelle installation parameters, including spanwise position, penetration, gully depth, pitch angle, and toe angle, are systematically studied. Qualitative and quantitative comparisons between different configurations are conducted and the sensitivity of drag, lift distribution, total pressure recovery, and airflow distortion to nacelle position is obtained. The mechanism of interference effects is also explored. These derived insights can provide some guidance for determining the nacelle position and reduce the cost of subsequent wind tunnel test.