An Experimental Study of Golf Ball Aerodynamics

Abstract The aerodynamic behaviour of the golf ball is primarily dependent on the physical features of complex dimples. The dimples vary in sizes, shapes and depths which generate complex aerodynamic flow pattern around the ball. Although some studies have been conducted on golf ball aerodynamics, the aerodynamic behaviour of dimple characteristics is not fully understood. The primary objective of this research is to experimentally evaluate the aerodynamic properties (drag, lift/down force) of a series of commercially available golf balls. Each of these new balls has different dimple characteristics. These balls were tested under a range of speeds. The aerodynamic properties were analysed. Due to varied dimple geometry, the magnitudes of drag coefficients of these balls were varied significantly. The non-dimensional drag coefficient for each ball was compared. The effects of spin on drag and lift have also been evaluated. However, spin data was not included in this paper.