Aerodynamics Matter !!
Hello All. First post here... wanted to share some data on aerodynamics. I am designing an ultralight (under 100 lbs/ft) small travel trailer and wanted to find out the effect of shape on aerodyna...
Forum Discussion
The discussions on EcoModder cover the questions here, and more, besides. Posts by Aerohead should be noted.
Aerodynamic design has several advantages. Lower HP demand and better wind-handling are chief. Better FE is less direct (the TV has to chosen more carefully).
Aero trailers have curved radius of 12-22 degrees where walls meet. With lower ground clearance, the winds pass over the trailer versus building in pressure along sidewalls (as with box shape trailers). Winds exert pull versus push, and with less force.
Lower in height from ground is beneficial for FE and wind handling. Etc.
The Airstream fully independent suspension widens the track, so to speak, such that with a lower COG, the Airstream will skid sideways versus roll over as with the leaf spring high COG boxes.
FWIW, a 10-15 year old Airstream is at its best point in depreciation and condition. Not at all old. A square white box is ready for the landfill at the same point.
Economy is also longest life at lowest overall cost.
There are those pulling 22-23' AS trailers well into the 20-mpg range.
A turbodiesel TV, well chosen, will show the greatest benefit. Typical solo to towing fuel penalty is 40%. 50 with a box not unusual. Trending down to 30 with a really well sorted aero trailer (same speed and same road; this requirement usually ignored).
Aerodynamic design has several advantages. Lower HP demand and better wind-handling are chief. Better FE is less direct (the TV has to chosen more carefully).
Aero trailers have curved radius of 12-22 degrees where walls meet. With lower ground clearance, the winds pass over the trailer versus building in pressure along sidewalls (as with box shape trailers). Winds exert pull versus push, and with less force.
Lower in height from ground is beneficial for FE and wind handling. Etc.
The Airstream fully independent suspension widens the track, so to speak, such that with a lower COG, the Airstream will skid sideways versus roll over as with the leaf spring high COG boxes.
FWIW, a 10-15 year old Airstream is at its best point in depreciation and condition. Not at all old. A square white box is ready for the landfill at the same point.
Economy is also longest life at lowest overall cost.
There are those pulling 22-23' AS trailers well into the 20-mpg range.
A turbodiesel TV, well chosen, will show the greatest benefit. Typical solo to towing fuel penalty is 40%. 50 with a box not unusual. Trending down to 30 with a really well sorted aero trailer (same speed and same road; this requirement usually ignored).
