Upgrades to the Texas A&M Oran W. Nicks Low-Speed Wind Tunnel for M=0.4 Operation Conference Paper uri icon

abstract

  • 2015, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Inc, AIAA. The Oran W. Nicks Low-Speed Wind Tunnel at Texas A&M University was designed as a 7 ft 10 ft facility capable of operating up to M = 0.25. Structural and interior modifications plus a new 3000 hp variable-speed motor have been implemented that permit operation up to M = 0.4. High-speed operation is achieved using 7 ft 7 ft test section plus contraction and diffuser inserts that can be installed when needed and removed to restore the 710 configuration. Operation up to M = 0.408 has been demonstrated at a fan speed of 960 RPM. Anticipated motor improvements will allow 1200 RPM operation and this will provide ample power margin up to M = 0.425 under nighttime power limits. Daytime limits will permit operation up to M = 0.38.

name of conference

  • 31st AIAA Aerodynamic Measurement Technology and Ground Testing Conference

published proceedings

  • 31st AIAA Aerodynamic Measurement Technology and Ground Testing Conference

author list (cited authors)

  • Herring, A. P., Kutz, D., Brown, L., & White, E. B.

citation count

  • 1

complete list of authors

  • Herring, Alexander P||Kutz, Douglas||Brown, Lisa||White, Edward B

publication date

  • June 2015