3M riblet film aero technology

[ende]

I've been reading a lot about aerodynamic improvements utilizing riblet technology (dermal denticles). Everything from speedo swimsuits to the hull of America's Cup challengers seem to be getting surface engineering with this stuff. Some studies I've read see a reduction of 2% in drag coefficients and up to 8% efficiency gains. 3M is the pioneer of this adhesive riblet film, but unfortunately it appears to only be available experimentally. Anyone heard of this? It would be great to test on an Insight.

Matt

[red1dr]

This technology originated in the '80's:
NASA - NASA Riblets for Stars & Stripes
Wonder why it isn't used on cars. I had 3M's Paint Protection Film applied to my Insight. If this works, maybe they could simply make the exterior surface of the PPF so it has denticles rather than being smooth and you'd get all-in-one drag reduction and paint protection??

The article says 8% drag reduction on aircraft. Perhaps the drag reduction is less at the lower speeds of autos??

[ende]

Never thought of it as killing two birds with one stone, but you're right that would be another advantage. These cars are so sensitive that I would think even a small drag reduction would be noticeable. I don't know details or even if it's the same stuff, but I think it has found it's way into some Ferrari's as well. Found this link regarding it's use on America's Cup. They say 3M is still keeping tight lipped about it.

Valencia Sailing: BMW Oracle's skin-friction reduction riblet film: Sorry, confidential

Matt