FLOTEK 1440 Research Grade Wind Tunnel

    This is a computer controlled subsonic wind tunnel with 12’ x 12” x 36” test section where velocity can reach up to 90 mph. The tunnel is fitted with a 20-tube manometer for enhanced visual reference and a two-component balance beam for measurement of drag and side force. Computer data acquisition system consists of 16 pressure transducers, 16 channels analog to digital and two channels digital to analog capability. LabVIEW software allows real time display of up to 16 readings of pressure and velocity over the test object while controlling the angle of attack and fan rpm.

     The following experiments are currently available:

1.   NACA 0015, NACA 2415 and NACA 4415 with sixteen pressure tappings to be connected to manometer and/or pressure transducers to demonstrate lift vs. angle of attack relationship and effect of stall on the upper surface airflow.

2.   A demonstration of the effect of dimples on golf balls and how these dimples affect the drag in different speed regime.

3.   A model racing car, fitted with pressure tappings. The wind velocity and drag profile can be measured. Two other non-instrumented model car are provided. These can be positioned around the instrumented car to allow students to investigate drifting and slipstreaming effects.

4.   A pair of plates (one with pressure taps) forming a convergent-divergent nozzle (venturi) to investigate continuity law and effect of flow separation on pressure measurement.