Reducing aerodynamic drag and heat generation in parabolic nose cones using single and double-disc tapered spikes

Abstract

This numerical study investigates the use of aerospike designs on the noses of supersonic vehicles to reduce drag and heat loads. Various configurations, including single and double hemispherical spikes, as well as flat disk taper spikes, are analyzed at zero-degree attack angles. When attached to a parabolic nose cone, aerospikes significantly modify aerodynamic drag. The study examines supersonic Mach numbers (3–5.8) to identify geometries that minimize heating and drag. Velocity vectors show recirculation zones, while Mach number contours illustrate bow shock shapes for different spikes. Results reveal that double disk tapered spikes outperform single disk tapered spikes in reducing heating and drag. Specifically, the “double flat disks taper spike parabolic nose cone” configuration achieves the lowest surface heat flux and aerodynamic drag coefficient, demonstrating beneficial flow and shock features near the base. Compared to SHTA, using DFDTS reduces pressure and total drag by 25% and heat flux by 52%.

Keywords:

• Aerodynamic heating
• CFD
• spike geometry
• supersonic flow
• tapered spike

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).