Dear Madam / Sir

I am in the process of CNC machining air foil shape (the wing) of 0.6m length, 0.2m width approximately. The wing is tested in the wind tunnel then it is discarded. The material that the model wing will be made of has to have characteristics to enable

·        sharp trailing edge

·        strong enough to withstand testing air flow (the strength of the air flow is very moderate, and is equal approximately to the electrical indoor home fan)

·        dense enough to prevent the air flow penetration into the wing whilst in the wind tunnel

·        The model does not have to “live” for long, as it will be discarded, once the data is recorded. It is envisaged that at least hundreds of them will be created and tested, till the best one is found (with thebest airflow characteristics).

What density modelling board can be recommended?

What adhesive to bond different parts of the wing can be recommended?

What finishing compound to paint / to seal the wing can be recommended?

Eugene 

Hi Eugene,

Would it not be easier to get one of the digital simulations for aerofoil sections?  There's  few around and it'll save you an age in fabrication.

we have a similar situation when teaching aerodynamics.

we use a high density insulation foam called celotex.

this material is easily worked, surprisingly strong and when sanded leaves a relatively smooth finish suitable for wind tunnel testing

CFD is great but there's no replacement for a visual/ real world test. Especially when trying to converse or teach people who don't have CFD knowledge