Abstract: A method using CFD technology is used for accurate prediction of aerodynamic force and heat of air-breathing hypersonic vehicles. It includes governing equations, turbulence models, advanced wall boundary condition and transition formulas. Heat flux and skin friction for typical laminar and turbulent flows of air-breathing vehicles are validated. Independence of heat flux and skin friction prediction with normal grids in turbulence flow is confirmed using wall function boundary. Aerodynamic heat and force of a designed air-breathing vehicle are simulated. Reliable numerical data for vehicle aerodynamic design and aerodynamic heat protection are provided.

Key words: air-breathing hypersonic vehicle, aerodynamic force, aerodynamic heat, numerical simulation