Free Online Seminar: Experiments and Simulations on Gust Induced Airfoil Stall Flutter

We are happy to invite you to the free online seminar titled: “Experiments and Simulations on Gust Induced Airfoil Stall Flutter” delivered by Prof. Marinos Manolesos from National Technical University of Athens.

Date: Friday, November 7
Time: 01:30 PM – 02:30 PM

Abstract:

A gust is an atmospheric flow disturbance that introduces unsteadiness around lifting surfaces, resulting in transient aerodynamic loading. Such disturbances are prevalent in the atmospheric boundary layer and can trigger aeroelastic instabilities in highly flexible aircraft structures. Among these, gust-induced stall flutter is a complex phenomenon driven by the interaction between transient inflow conditions and airfoil structural dynamics.

This talk presents a combined experimental and numerical investigation into the mechanisms by which discrete gusts induce dynamic stall and lead to limit-cycle oscillations or divergent responses. A novel gust generation system has been designed and installed in the low-speed wind tunnel at NTUA, enabling controlled, repeatable gust conditions. This system is integrated with an aeroelastic test setup supporting elastically mounted wing models. Experimental observations are complemented by medium- and high-fidelity numerical simulations to analyse the onset conditions, frequency characteristics, and amplitude behaviour of the resulting flutter. Results offer new insights into unsteady aeroelastic response mechanisms relevant to modern lightweight structures.

Short Bio: Dr. Marinos Manolesos is an Assistant Professor at the National Technical University of Athens, and his research focuses on experimental and computational fluid mechanics, with applications in wind and tidal energy, flow separation and control, aeroelasticity, and race car aerodynamics. He holds a PhD from NTUA and has previously worked in both academia and industry, including roles at Swansea University, City St George's, University of London, and as an aerodynamicist in Formula 1 with Red Bull Racing and Renault F1 Team. Dr. Manolesos is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (UK) and an active member of several international scientific committees related to fluid dynamics and renewable energy.

Before registering, please check our eligibility criteria.