Wind Tunnel
The wind tunnels on the campus of Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) facilitate aerodynamic and boundary layer research on static and moving objects, at both small and large scale.
Research into a headwind
Experimental research is required to understand the aerodynamics of an aircraft wing slicing through the air or a cyclist moving over the road. Or to understand the spread of particulate matter through a city, or the wind load caused by a large ship in a harbor. Some of these experiments require a small-scale experimental setup that is highly controlled. Others need a life-size simulation of the situation being studied. Any research of this type is possible using the wind tunnels on the campus of TU Eindhoven.
Aeronautical wind tunnel
Fundamental and applied turbulence research in the aeronautical wind tunnel has a long history. The cross section of the wind tunnel is fifty by eighty centimeters. This setup is highly suitable for investigating at a reduced scale such aspects as the turbulence caused by an aircraft wing.
Atmospheric boundary layer wind tunnel
The new atmospheric boundary layer wind tunnel is suitable for two categories of research. Big, stationary obstacles and the airflows they cause in their surroundings, and vice versa, can be studied at a fairly large scale. Imagine, say, a hospital standing close to a traffic junction and the need to ascertain the influence of the exhaust fumes on the building's ventilation system. In the boundary layer wind tunnel measuring two by three meters almost any situation can be simulated. Air speeds, turbulence, particulate matter and gas concentrations are all measurable with first-rate measuring equipment.
Cycling research
The same wind tunnel can also accommodate aerodynamic research on moving objects, such as cyclists, skaters or cars. The roof and walls of the tunnel can be removed to create an exceptionally large research platform. A peloton of nine cyclists can even be studied to establish the position they can best adopt to minimize air resistance.
Globally unique
Very few research facilities in the world can measure up to the atmospheric boundary layer wind tunnel on the TU/e campus. The ability to offer this particular combination of two such wind tunnels is very likely unique to the TU/e campus. A vast team of experts conduct experiments for TU/e's research groups. Notwithstanding, these facilities are also available for commercial purposes. Parties wishing to have buildings, ships, athletes or other objects tested for wind load and aerodynamics should contact Bert Blocken.
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Dr. Stefanie Gillmeier