The Cartwright Group and Manchester Metropolitan University -
Trailer Aerodynamics

The Cartwright Group is currently participating in a partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) to develop low carbon trailers using cutting edge methods such as computational fluid dynamics (CFD).

CFD allows us to quickly improve our aerodynamic vehicle designs, try new ideas, and bring high-end motor industry technologies into trailer development without having to build new prototype trailers until we're sure there will be a benefit. We can also verify the fuel savings we make by measuring them on the computer, and apply academic rigour to all our calculations. Aerodynamic drag is responsible for 50% of fuel consumption during motorway haulage. Reducing this could save thousands of pounds, and dramatically reduce CO2 emissions.

Representing the MMU in this collaboration is Dr Peter Twigg, who says that "working with one of the largest trailer manufacturers in the country to provide innovative aerodynamic solutions allows our students to experience a real commercial setting and let them use the knowledge they have acquired during their studies to help Cartwrights whilst also benefiting the country as a whole by reducing vehicle emissions, improving our environment."

As we further develop our work in this area we intend to host conferences and publish academic papers to further demonstrate what we have achieved in our partnership

Recent Projects:

The Cheetah SRS Cab Spoiler

Using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) we simulated typical operator errors that can occur when using aerodynamic roof airfoils. The Cheetah SRS eliminates these errors.

See how the flow alters from turbulent to laminar airflow as the SRS adjust to the height of the trailer.

Aerodynamic CFD Development

Traditional CFD technology takes hours or even days to compute the data necessary to recreate a windtunnel environment. Our CFD methods allow us to alter models and do testing in real-time to achieve results faster and work more efficiently.

Below is a video demonstrating some of the techniques used in our CFD work, including real-time model alteration, real-time velocity / density displays, real time turbulence simulations, and comparison videos showing the negative effect a cab aerofoil that is too high or too low can have on aerodynamics and how the SRS Cheetah aerofoil solves this problem.