While wind tunnel or similar test techniques are commonly used to help overcome aerodynamic problems, they can frequently help with the solution of hydrodynamic problems also. Appendages can be modelled at a large scale without free surface effects and the flow can be easily and accurately measured and observed. Testing should be planned at an early stage in the design process, thus saving on development time and cost, and leading to a better design. The Wolfson Unit engineers, who are employed full time on consulting work, have built up a wealth of experience in overcoming aerodynamic and hydrodynamic problems for their clients. This experience helps them to adapt test techniques or design special tests to match the specifications and budgets of the client.
All work is carried out in secure conditions and full confidentiality is maintained at all times.
No details of, or results from, any test programme are ever published without the express permission of the client. Many different techniques are used to obtain the experimental results desired. Measurement of motions and vibrations using strain gauges and accelerometers. Measurements of air velocity and pressure using hot wire probes, pressure gauges, vane anemometers and laser anemometry. Flow visualization using smoke, oil films and wool tufts.