Aerodynamic and Aerothermal Performance of Power-law Shaped Leading Edge of Hypersonic Waveriders

A numerical study is presented on three- dimensional power-law shaped leading edge for waveriders in hypersonic flow. This work is motivated by interest in researching the flow field properties of power-law shaped leading edge as a possible candidate for blunting leading edges of waveriders. Both aerodynamic and aerothermal characteristics are calculated for a waverider forebody in hypersonic flow. Comparisons are made between power-law shaped leading edges and round leading edge. For the flow conditions considered, the power-law leading edges of waveriders can provide small drag, and at the same time it can bring enough bluntness for the necessity of thermal protection.