The Aerodynamics Lab at Wilkes University is a dynamic facility designed to enhance the understanding of fluid dynamics and aerodynamic principles through hands-on experimentation and research.
The lab provides students with state-of-the-art equipment to study airflow, lift, drag, and pressure distribution over various structures and surfaces. Featuring wind tunnels and advanced diagnostic tools, the lab enables students to conduct experiments on model aircraft, turbines, and other aerodynamic systems.
Through practical learning opportunities, students gain valuable insights into the behavior of fluids in motion and their applications in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and energy systems. This lab serves as a critical platform for fostering innovation and preparing students for advanced studies and careers in fluid mechanics and aerodynamics.
Lab Details
Our subsonic Aerolab wind tunnel offers a 12"x12" test section within a 20 ft. overall length. Several separate fluids-related lab modules are used to support the fluid mechanics course. Each experiment is mounted onto a gravity bench, which includes a water supply and flow measurement system.
Additional instrumentation includes friction measuring equipment, a variable pump set up, and a digital wind tunnel console with a three-component sting balance. Data acquisition systems measure pressure and airflow velocity. Pressure and force data can be continuously monitored and recorded. Students conduct tests of realistic (three-dimensional) models, investigate pitching movement (nose up), study asymmetric characteristics, test devices without a two- dimensional counterpart, and investigate stability and control. The three-component sting balance system is used in several wind tunnel lab experiments.
A hybrid projectile research project has been conducted for U.S. Army Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center (ARDEC), Picatinny Arsenal NJ.
Fluid Mechanics Lab (ME 323), Senior Projects I and II (ME 391 and 392) and some Environmental Engineering courses utilize this lab.