Advancing Propeller Wake Characterization: The Superiority of Large Eddy Simulation over Conventional Turbulence Modeling Techniques

Abstract

Understanding the aerodynamic effects of propeller wash is essential for optimizing efficiency and stability in aircraft and UAVs. This study compares Large Eddy Simulation (LES) with Unsteady Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes (URANS) and Detached Eddy Simulation (DES) for modeling propeller-induced wakes. Unlike URANS, which oversimplifies unsteady flow features, LES resolves large-scale turbulent structures directly, offering greater accuracy in capturing vortex shedding, wake interaction, and transient flow behavior. DES improves upon URANS but still struggles near boundary layers. By accurately predicting lift, drag, and wake dynamics, LES provides deeper physical insight into propeller performance and noise generation. These advantages position LES as a superior tool for analyzing and optimizing modern propeller-driven systems under realistic operating conditions. Key Terms⎯ Propeller wake, Turbulence modeling, Unsteady Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes (URANS), and UAV optimization.