Spoilers vs Wings: A Car-Lover's Debate

In summary: Air brakes basically, good for quick descent and landing but otherwise a waste of energy,Seems to be becoming quite normal for short flights lately,This may be more fuel efficient to stay at high altitude until descent path has been cleared by ATC.
  • #1
Foshasta
4
0
What is the difference between an automotive spoiler and an automotive wing? Is there a difference?

My understanding has always been that a wing is an airfoil, and is used to produce downforce, while a spoiler is is just a lip that is used to reduce drag by creating a pocket of stagnant air. This is what people on the car forums seem to think as well. Is there anyone with actual fluid mechanics experience that can give a more insightful perspective into this?
 
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  • #2
A wing is a wing (an airfoil). Typical use is to create downforce.

A spoiler is there to "spoil" any other flow. The use in airplanes is to "spoil" the lift of the wings, usually to allow a greater descent rate.
On a car there are some obvious uses such as spoiling the underbody flow. One of the most famous applications is to spoil the up-force (lift) created by the common fastback tail
 
  • #3
olivermsun said:
A wing is a wing (an airfoil). Typical use is to create downforce.

A spoiler is there to "spoil" any other flow. The use in airplanes is to "spoil" the lift of the wings, usually to allow a greater descent rate.
On a car there are some obvious uses such as spoiling the underbody flow. One of the most famous applications is to spoil the up-force (lift) created by the common fastback tail

Thanks for the response!

Could you explain what you mean by "spoil?" I'm currently taking an entry-level fluid mechanics class; I'm not familiar with all the jargon yet.
 
  • #4
'Spoil' means making the airflow less effiicient for lift and induces drag as well.
Air brakes basically, good for quick descent and landing but otherwise a waste of energy,
Seems to be becoming quite normal for short flights lately.
It may be more fuel efficient to stay at high altitude until descent path has been cleared by ATC?
 
  • #5
rootone said:
'Spoil' means making the airflow less effiicient for lift and induces drag as well.
Air brakes basically, good for quick descent and landing but otherwise a waste of energy,
Seems to be becoming quite normal for short flights lately

Is that just because it creates turbulence? Laminar flow is better for lift, right?
 

Related to Spoilers vs Wings: A Car-Lover's Debate

1. What is the purpose of spoilers and wings on a car?

Spoilers and wings are aerodynamic devices that are commonly added to cars to improve their performance and handling. They work by creating downforce, which is a downward force that helps to keep the car's tires firmly on the ground. This improves traction and stability, allowing the car to take corners and curves at higher speeds without losing control.

2. Are spoilers and wings only for aesthetic purposes?

No, spoilers and wings are not just for looks. While they can certainly add a sporty and aggressive appearance to a car, their main purpose is to improve the car's performance. They are carefully designed and tested to provide the right amount of downforce for a specific car model and can significantly enhance its handling and speed.

3. Which one is better for performance: spoilers or wings?

This is a subject of much debate among car enthusiasts. Spoilers and wings both serve the same purpose of creating downforce, but they do so in different ways. Spoilers are typically smaller and mounted on the rear of the car, while wings are larger and mounted higher up, often on the trunk or roof. The effectiveness of each depends on the specific design and placement, so it is difficult to say which one is better for performance overall.

4. Do spoilers and wings increase fuel efficiency?

Yes, spoilers and wings can have a positive impact on fuel efficiency. By creating downforce and improving the car's handling, they can help to reduce drag and make the car more aerodynamic. This means the car can move through the air more easily, requiring less energy (fuel) to maintain speed. However, the effect on fuel efficiency may not be significant enough to justify the cost of adding these devices to a car solely for this purpose.

5. Can any car benefit from spoilers or wings?

No, not every car can benefit from spoilers or wings. These devices are designed for high-performance cars that are driven at high speeds and need the extra downforce for better handling. Adding spoilers or wings to a regular car that is primarily used for everyday driving may not provide any noticeable benefits and could even have a negative impact on fuel efficiency. Additionally, certain cars may already have built-in aerodynamic features that make spoilers and wings unnecessary.

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