Definition of the Aerodynamic Centre
Category: Aerodynamics
Problem
In the Bladed user manual it is stated that XA is the “pitch moment centre” from the leading edge. If XA is 50% of all aero forces (CL, CD and CM ) then are they considered as acting at this point and then they are transferred consistently to 25% chord?
Solution
Internally in Bladed the coefficients are converted to 25% chord which is where the aerodynamic calculation is carried out. The resulting loads from the aerodynamic calculation are then converted from 25% chord to the neutral axis location before being applied to the structural model.
Keywords Aerodynamic; pitch moment; 25% chord