2006-08-25 21:10:19 · 3 answers · asked by m_catia 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Engineering
Wind tunnels are used for the study of aerodynamics (the dynamics of fluids).
So there is a wide range of applications, such us:
- airframe flow analysis (aviation, airfoil improvements etc),
- aircraft engines (jets) performance tests and improvements,
- car industry: reduction of friction, better air penetration, reduction of losses and fuel consumption (that's why all cars now look the same: the shape is not a question of taste, but the result of laws of physics!)
- any improvement against and to reduce air friction: i.e. the shape of a speed cycling helmet, the shape of the profiles used on a bike are designed in a wind tunnel.
- to measure the effect of wind on buildings, sky-scrapers, bridges and other constructions, and analyse the resistance of these construction against bad weather conditions.
- to measure the flow and shape of waves on a surface of water, in response to winds (very large swimming pools!)
- entertainment as well, in mounting the tunnel on a vertical axis and blowing from bottom to top. Not to simulate anti-gravity as said above, but to allow safely the experience of free-falling parachutes.
- and many more! Just think how wind is unpredictable. A wind tunnel provides regular flow, when we want it. The weather does not!
2006-08-25 22:51:42 · answer #1 · answered by just "JR" 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
In addition to aeroplanes and other flying machines automobiles and racing cars, also I believe for simulating zero gravity.
2006-08-26 05:09:03 · answer #2 · answered by Robert A 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
AEROPLANE AND OTHER MANMADE FLYING MACHINES.
2006-08-26 04:17:20 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋