This computational tool aids in analyzing supersonic expansion fans, specifically determining flow properties like Mach number, pressure, and temperature downstream of a convex corner in a supersonic flow. For instance, given the upstream Mach number and the corner angle, the tool can compute the downstream Mach number and other flow parameters.
Understanding expansion fans is critical in designing supersonic aircraft, rocket nozzles, and other high-speed flow devices. This analytical method, named after Ludwig Prandtl and Theodor Meyer, provides a fundamental framework for characterizing such flows, offering valuable insights for optimizing aerodynamic performance and predicting pressure distributions. Historically, these calculations were performed using tables and charts; now, digital tools provide faster and more accurate results, facilitating more efficient design processes.
