Computational and Experimental Study on Flow Quality of Open-Loop Low-Speed Wind Tunnel

Abstract

Several kinds of wind tunnels are developed in the past few decades. It is an essential tool for aerodynamic studies in research and academia. However, irrespective of the tunnel, it becomes crucial to maintain the flow quality in the test section holding the measurements accurate. This study emphasizes on the flow quality of low speed subsonic open-loop wind tunnel. Experimental findings were validated with computational results. Flow quality parameters were examined by verifying the uniformity and velocity profile of the test section. At various fan speed, test section wind velocity was measured and compared with numerical results. Both results agree with each other. Uniformity assessment was evaluated along the centerline of the test section and noted that wind velocity remains constant in both experimental and computational investigation. Velocity profile was measured from the upper to lower wall, which confirms the boundary layer near the walls. The profile, in computational and experimental results, were similar. These validated results can be employed as a reference to the design and construction of a lowspeed subsonic wind tunnel.