CFD analysis and experimental validation of different parachute geometries for unguided rockets

A predictive numerical methodology developed in collaboration with Be-Rocket to analyze and validate parachute aerodynamics and crosswind stability without relying solely on costly wind tunnel campaigns.

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THE CHALLENGE

Relying solely on physical wind tunnel testing for student-designed rocket parachutes is expensive, time-intensive, and limited when assessing complex crosswind behavior and static stability. To design optimized recovery systems for sounding rockets, there was a critical need for a reliable, predictive Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) methodology to evaluate different canopy geometries before manufacturing.

THE QUESTION

How accurately can steady-state 3D RANS CFD simulations predict the drag coefficients, flow fields, and crosswind static stability of various parachute geometries compared to experimental wind tunnel measurements?

HOW (METHODOLOGY & EXPERIMENTAL SETUP)

A multi-disciplinary approach combining CFD simulations, textile manufacturing, and custom wind tunnel test benches:


  • 3D CFD Modeling (STAR-CCM+):


    Set up numerical simulations using the k-omega SST turbulence model with polyhedral volume meshing and boundary prism layers across three distinct geometries (Elliptical, Toroidal, and Disk-Gap-Band / EGB). Verified numerical accuracy via domain independence and a Grid Convergence Index (GCI) study.

  • Flexible Canopy Manufacturing & Tensile Testing:


    Characterized materials through tensile testing of calendered nylon fabric (38 & 45 GSM) and flat-felled seams. Fabricated full-scale flexible parachutes using laser-cut panels and Dyneema lines for baseline aerodynamic testing in the ULiège subsonic wind tunnel.

  • Custom Rigid Test Bench for Crosswind & Stability:


    Engineered and built a dedicated rigid wind tunnel rig featuring interchangeable 3D-printed scale canopies mounted on a 6-DOF load cell (ATI Omega 160). Applied structural deflection calculations and CFD wake interference corrections to isolate aerodynamic forces across sideslip angles.

THE RESULTS

High-fidelity CFD validation, successful stability characterization, and clear canopy selection:

Rigid Rig vs. CFD Agreement:


The custom rigid setup delivered highly consistent, noise-free measurements that closely matched the CFD predictions, achieving low percentage errors.


Static Stability & Crosswind Behavior (Pitching moment (static stability) and lateral drift):


Pitching moment analysis proved that geometries with higher geometric porosity possess strong self-restoring static stability.

  • EGB Parachute: Exhibited the highest static stability and the lowest Lift-to-Drag ratio, effectively minimizing horizontal wind drift. -> Optimal choice as a drogue parachute.

  • Toroidal Parachute: Generated the highest drag coefficient while maintaining intermediate stability. -> Optimal choice as the main recovery parachute.

  • Elliptical Parachute: Demonstrated the lowest static stability (initial static instability at small angles due to low porosity) and the highest lateral drift potential.

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