Problem Description

A long semi-circular hut with an eight foot radius is exposed to extreme windy conditions in a desert. The wind blows uniformly at a speed of 50 mph as shown in the figure. The upstream pressure is atmospheric (gage pressure = 0). Determine the resultant drag and lift forces exerted on the hut due to the wind. Assume the pressure inside the hut is also at atmospheric pressure.

What are the drag and lift forces acting on the hut for the stated conditions? Consider both inside and outside pressure.

• Base the analysis on potential flow past a fixed cylinder.
• Take the density of air as 2.2×10^-3 slugs/ft³.