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Research on Aerodynamic Performance of Bionic Fan Blades with Microstructured Surface
Meihong Gao1, Xiaomin Liu1,2, Meihui Zhu1
1Department of Mechanical and Electronic Engineering, Heze University, Heze 274015, China.
Biomimetics (Basel, Switzerland)
|January 27, 2026
Summary
Bionic microgrooves on axial flow fan blades reduce drag and improve efficiency. This study clarifies drag reduction laws and fabricates microstructures, enhancing aerodynamic performance for engineering applications.
Area of Science:
- Fluid Mechanics
- Aerodynamics
- Bionics
Background:
- Frictional resistance on impeller machinery blades significantly impacts efficiency.
- Shark skin-inspired microstructures offer a promising approach for drag reduction.
- Fabricating microstructures on 3D curved surfaces presents engineering challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate drag reduction laws for bionic microgroove surfaces on small axial flow fans.
- To determine optimal dimensions for bionic microstructures on fan blade surfaces.
- To enhance aerodynamic performance and efficiency through biomimetic surface engineering.
Main Methods:
- Design of Experiments (DOE) combined with high-precision numerical simulation.
- Utilized steady-state (k-ω model, simpleFoam) and unsteady (Large Eddy Simulation, pimpleFoam, WALE) simulations.
- Fabricated microstructured surfaces using a spray coating process based on grooved flat plate data.
Main Results:
- Microgroove dimensions (dimensionless height h+, width s+) in the range of 8.50-29.75 achieved effective drag reduction.
- Bionic fan blades showed significantly reduced shaft power consumption.
- Static pressure efficiency increased by 2.33% (micro-dimples) and 3.46% (micro-grooves).
Conclusions:
- Bionic microstructured surfaces effectively reduce drag and improve the aerodynamic performance of axial flow fans.
- The proposed spray coating fabrication method facilitates the engineering application of bionic drag reduction technology.
- This research provides a pathway for enhancing the efficiency of turbomachinery through biomimicry.
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