Correlation Tests in a Climatic Wind-Tunnel 750064
The report illustrates the first steps of full-scale aerodynamic correlation tests in the Volvo Climatic Wind-Tunnel and the knowledge achieved, applied to every day testing. The scale model testing reported is a summary of the efforts involved trying to convert the climatic tunnel to an acceptable aerodynamic test facility. The aerodynamic activities in the tunnel take up less than 10% of available testing time, the main activity will still be climatic testing. Consequently, the investments involved must be considered according to this, and required accuracy must be set to match costs. The aerodynamic insert also has to be easy to install and remove due to high tunnel time utilization costs.
To make it easier for the reader of this report to understand the function of the facility, a short introduction of non-aerodynamic data has been included. Quality data for full-scale operation and aerodynamic performance are followed by reports of full-scale testing. The purpose of these tests has been to establish correlation in the sense of setpoint curves and accuracy limits.
For the scale model test insert, measurements of flow quality and investigating tests with passenger car models are reported.
Another important and helpful part of practical aerodynamics, flow visulization, has not been included. The work in this field has been intense both in full-scale and model work, but the experiences achieved have been considered basic.
