Experimental characterization of flutter in a Straight Spar using modal analysis and wind tunnel testing

Mohd Sabri, Muhammad Aqil Karimi and Nor Zaidi, Muhammad Amirul Adli and Abdullah, Nur Azam and Andan, Amelda Dianne and Azami, Muhammad Hanafi and Wahid, Azni Nabela (2026) Experimental characterization of flutter in a Straight Spar using modal analysis and wind tunnel testing. Journal of Aeronautics, Astronautics and Aviation, 58 (3). pp. 355-363. ISSN 1990-7710

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Abstract

This study presents the experimental design and validation of a Straight Spar structure intended for aeroelastic flutter testing, particularly for fixed wing UAV applications. The main objective is to develop a spar that exhibits flutter onset within a target velocity range of 20–25 m/s. The research employs fully experimental methods, including vibration testing for modal analysis and wind tunnel testing to observe flutter behavior. Comparative analysis with simulation results was conducted for validation. The designed spar successfully demonstrated flutter at 20 m/s, with only a 0.32 m/s deviation from simulation predictions. Furthermore, both experimental and simulation methods identified the bending and torsion mode shapes at nearly identical frequencies, confirming strong agreement and model validity. These findings affirm the suitability of the proposed spar design for UAVs operating within the specified flight speed range and lay the foundation for future studies on aeroelastic energy harvesting.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Wing Spar, Flutter, Aeroelastic, Modal Analysis, Wind Tunnel
Subjects:	T Technology > TJ Mechanical engineering and machinery > TJ181 Mechanical movements T Technology > TJ Mechanical engineering and machinery > TJ210.2 Mechanical devices and figures. Automata. Ingenious mechanism. Robots (General) T Technology > TL Motor vehicles. Aeronautics. Astronautics > TL500 Aeronautics
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Engineering > Department of Mechanical Engineering Kulliyyah of Engineering
Depositing User:	Ir. Dr. Nur Azam Abdullah
Date Deposited:	20 Aug 2026 16:26
Last Update:	20 Aug 2026 16:26
Queue Number:	2026-08-Q4849
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/130936

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