1. General Description

The wind tunnel is designed as a closed-loop system with horizontal airflow in a vertical (standing) structural configuration. This design enables compact integration of all flow-guiding components while providing high structural rigidity and efficient use of installation space. The facility is suited for precise aerodynamic investigations in research, development, and industrial testing environments.

The wind tunnel covers a continuously adjustable speed range from 3 m/s to 60 m/s, allowing both sensitive low-speed measurements and testing under high-flow conditions.

Due to its modular construction, the system can be adapted flexibly to project-specific requirements. In particular, the test section is configured individually and can be customized in terms of dimensions, accessibility, and optical equipment.

In addition to the standard version, the wind tunnel can also be supplied in a thermally insulated design. This version is intended for applications in which stable thermal boundary conditions, reduced heat exchange with the surroundings, or integration into temperature-controlled test environments are required. Learn more

Overall dimensions of the complete system are:

• Total length: 6,320 mm
• Total width: 1,331 mm
• Total height: 2,500 mm

The compact standing configuration allows installation in existing industrial and research facilities without requiring extraordinary structural modifications.

Technical Data

Design type		Closed loop
Measuring cross section	mm	400 x 400
Measuring length	mm	600
Max. windspeed	m/s	50
Turbulence level	%	0,6 @50% Windspeed
Contraction		4,5

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2. Basic Structure

The wind tunnel features a modular design. All main components are constructed as bolted assemblies, allowing individual transportation, installation, and maintenance.

The primary modules include:

• Flow conditioning chamber with honeycombs and three flow straightening screens
• High-performance nozzle for uniform flow acceleration
• Project-specific test section with optional glazing
• Axial fan unit with vibration isolation
• Return duct for closed-loop air circulation

The test section can be fully or partially glazed depending on project requirements, enabling the use of optical measurement techniques. A rotary turntable for precise model positioning can be integrated upon request. The test section floor is designed as a rigid, non-moving structure.

To accommodate varying testing requirements, interchangeable test chambers can be implemented. Compact configurations typically include cross sections in the range of approximately 400 × 400 mm.

The facility is intended for indoor installation. Under typical load conditions, special foundation measures are generally not required.

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3. Flow Conditioning and Turbulence Level

The flow conditioning system is designed to ensure uniform and reproducible airflow. A turbulence intensity of only 0.6% is achieved at the test section inlet, allowing reliable aerodynamic measurements even for highly sensitive applications.

The settling chamber includes:

• Honeycombs for correcting swirl and cross-flow components
• Three coordinated flow straightening screens for further velocity profile smoothing

The airflow is subsequently accelerated through an aerodynamically optimized nozzle. The contraction ratio of 4.5 ensures uniform flow transfer into the test section while maintaining a compact overall system design.

An integrated turbulence monitoring system can be provided as an option. It is directly connected to the control system and enables continuous monitoring of flow quality during operation.

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4. Drive Concept

The drive system is based on a high-performance axial fan designed to provide stable airflow across the entire speed range.

The fan is mounted using vibration-isolated supports to prevent mechanical oscillations from transferring to the tunnel structure. This significantly improves measurement stability and increases system durability.

Speed control is performed continuously via a frequency inverter, allowing precise adjustment of airflow conditions according to test requirements.

An external control interface can be implemented on request to integrate the wind tunnel into existing test rigs or customer-side control systems.

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5. Control System, Regulation and Software

The system is operated via a local industrial touch panel that allows convenient control of all operating parameters and clear visualization of relevant measurement data.

In addition, the wind tunnel can be controlled remotely via PC software. This enables remote access as well as integration into higher-level testing and automation environments.

The following parameters are monitored and displayed:

• Flow velocity
• Air temperature
• Barometric pressure
• Air humidity
• Reynolds number
• Turbulence intensity

The velocity measurement system provides very high accuracy suitable for demanding aerodynamic investigations.

Optional features include:

• Continuous data logging
• Automated test programs for predefined test sequences
• Interfaces for integration of external measurement systems

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6. Measurement Equipment and Extensions

The measurement equipment is modular and can be fully adapted to specific project requirements.

Optional integrations include:

• Force and moment balance systems
• Multi-channel pressure measurement systems
• Traversing systems for detailed flow analysis
• Optical measurement techniques such as PIV or laser light sheet methods
• Smoke and fog visualization systems

Permissible model dimensions and model weights depend on the selected test chamber geometry and are defined individually for each project.

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7. Coating and Material Options

All modules can be finished with durable industrial protective coatings. Customized color schemes are available upon request.

For applications requiring enhanced environmental resistance, the system can be manufactured using corrosion-resistant material configurations.

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Link to the reference project

Datasheet WT 327

 

 

 

Accesories

Power electronics

Windtunnel control

Attention! Any power electronics and windtunnel control shown are not included in the sales price and must be purchased separately!