Water Tunnel WT-1

The VKI water tunnel WT-1 offers a cost-effective solution for simulating high Reynolds number flows around scaled models. This continuous closed-loop facility, driven by gravity and supplemented by a water pump, features a main test section with dimensions of 120x240x900 mm and a narrower test section measuring 50x240x1000 mm for examining flows around 2D profiles.

Equipped with numerous precision valves and rotameters, the WT-1 allows for meticulous control and measurement of the mass flow rate through the test sections. Full optical access throughout the test section facilitates high-quality flow visualizations using various techniques, including colored dyes, Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV), Particle Tracking Velocimetry (PTV), Laser Doppler Velocimetry (LDV), and hydrogen bubbles.

Typical flow velocities are around 0.15 m/s, though these can be increased with different test section configurations. Additionally, a robust water heating system enhances the achievable Reynolds numbers. Models can be outfitted with pressure taps, dye injection systems, and can be actuated to perform pitch oscillations, enabling comprehensive analysis and experimentation.

  Example of a dye injection system to visualize boundary layer separation along a blunt hemi-cylindrical blunt body

Schematic of the VKI water tunnel WT-1 facility