Hi All There seems to be a little confusion of the theory and practical use of vortex generators. Here is my 2 cents worth.
A Vortex generator is a group of small tabs on the top or bottom of the wing (also used on the vertical stab on some aircraft). They are small (short) enough to be only in the laminar flow of the wing. The tab is set at an angle to the airflow to introduce a rotation (or energy) to the airflow. This has the effect of keeping the airflow attached to the wing at a greater angle of attack. they do not reduce cruise speed at all. On laminar flow airfoils that are greatly affected by bugs on the leading edge, a vortex generator will help keep the airflow attached to the wing even with the bug or rain disturbing the flow. Many aircraft are using vortex generators, and we have them on the Cessna 414A that I fly. The vortex generators reduce the stall speed and Vmc (single engine control speed) with the resulting lower field length requirements. According to the specs, if more than 3 are mssing, we have to operate the aircraft as if it was not equiped. Another example is the New Piper Meridan. Piper added approx 72 vortex gens on the wings and horiontal stab and was able to increase the useful load by 240 lbs and keep the same stall speed. Hope this didn't add to the confusion. Gord Sorensen [email protected] _________________________________________________________________ Add photos to your messages with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=dept/features&pgmarket=en-ca&RU=http%3a%2f%2fjoin.msn.com%2f%3fpage%3dmisc%2fspecialoffers%26pgmarket%3den-ca
