Aerodynamic Performance of a Topologically Optimised Nose-Wheel Fork of a Light Aircraft Produced By Selective Laser Melting

Authors

  • L.F. Monaheng Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Central University of Technology, Free State, South Africa https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2263-3162
  • W.B. du Preez Centre for Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing, Central University of Technology, Free State, South Africa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9935-7330
  • C. Polese School of Mechanical, Industrial and Aeronautical Engineering, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa | 4 ARUA Centre of Excellence in Materials, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2662-8114

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7166/36-3-3346

Abstract

A complex topologically optimised landing gear fork for a light aircraft was fabricated using selective laser melting (SLM). It was hypothesised that the optimised fork would exhibit a unique air flow surface contour that could enhance aerodynamic performance by promoting lift and reducing drag compared with conventionally manufactured components. To test this hypothesis, the aerodynamic behaviour of the nose-wheel fork was investigated using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Both the SLM-produced optimised fork and a conventionally milled counterpart were analysed to predict lift and drag. The findings provide insight into the potential of topology optimisation to improve the aerodynamic efficiency of aircraft structures.

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Author Biography

L.F. Monaheng, Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Central University of Technology, Free State, South Africa

Senior Lecturer, Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering

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Published

2025-12-09

How to Cite

Monaheng, L., du Preez, W., & Polese, C. (2025). Aerodynamic Performance of a Topologically Optimised Nose-Wheel Fork of a Light Aircraft Produced By Selective Laser Melting. The South African Journal of Industrial Engineering, 36(3), 316–326. https://doi.org/10.7166/36-3-3346

Issue

Vol. 36 No. 3 (2025): The South African Journal of Industrial Engineering

Section

General Articles

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