Design and CFD Analysis of Go-Kart
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Date
2026
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Publisher
NHCE
Abstract
This project presents the design and aerodynamic evaluation of a racing go-kart using CFD as the primary tool for analysis. The study was motivated by the need to improve two particularly influential features performance and stability-often neglected due to the compact, open-framed structure of the vehicle. A 3D CAD model with the following details was developed: chassis, wheels, engine housing, and a driver in realistic racing posture.
CFD simulations were conducted in ANSYS Fluent using the Realizable k—e turbulence model in order to predict key aerodynamic behaviors such as flow separation, wake formation, pressure distribution, and boundary-layer development. A combination of fine-quality meshing along with controlled boundary conditions allows for the extraction of essential performance parameters including drag coefficient Cd, lift coefficient Cl, and temporal evolution of wake structure. Complementary experimental testing was conducted featuring smoke visualization, tuft analysis, and drag measurement using a load-cell mechanism in order to validate the numerical predictions and to understand the physical flow behavior around the kart.