CFD Analysis of Slot Width Variation on Aerodynamic Characteristics of a Slotted NACA ۰۰۱۲ Airfoil

This study investigates the aerodynamic impact of straight-slot modifications on a NACA ۰۰۱۲ airfoil, with particular emphasis on the influence of slot width. A series of two-dimensional CFD simulations were conducted over angles of attack ranging from ۰° to ۲۰°, comparing the baseline airfoil with multiple slotted configurations. Key aerodynamic parameters, including lift coefficient (CL), drag coefficient (CD), and lift-to-drag ratio (CL/CD), were analyzed to quantify the effects of slot geometry. The results indicate that increasing slot width does not universally enhance aerodynamic performance; in most cases, wider slots disrupt the airflow, increasing drag and reducing lift, thereby decreasing overall efficiency. Minor performance improvements are observed only at higher angles of attack (۱۵°–۲۰°), where a slight reduction in drag occurs. These findings highlight the critical role of slot width in passive flow control and provide practical guidance for optimizing slotted airfoil designs in aerodynamic applications such as wind turbines and aircraft.