TU/e offers unique airflow testing in new wind tunnel

Over the last three years, the University of Technology in Eindhoven has been developing a wind tunnel that is unique in its kind. In the world of cycling, wind tunnels are already used.

4 December 2017

Over the last three years, the University of Technology in Eindhoven has been developing a wind tunnel that is unique in its kind. In the world of cycling, wind tunnels are already used. However, never before could an entire cycling team ride their bikes in a wind tunnel.

As a university, we have to keep innovating in new facilities as new research methods are continuously emerging. And we cannot stay behind in this matter. Not only for the education, but also to be able to carry out good research.

Bert Blocken - Full Professor, Prof.Dr.Ir. at Eindhoven University of Technology

Most wind tunnels expose objects to a uniform airflow. However, this wind tunnel mimics the air flow just above the earth’s surface. “This makes it possible to measure the effects of wind around, for example, buildings. We are able to take into account with the correct turbulence characteristics and wind gusts, as the wind never has a constant speed in reality,” says Bert Blocken.

It is a great addition to the University of Technology in Eindhoven, as very few research facilities in the world can measure up to this atmospheric wind tunnel. On December 14, 2017, the tunnel will be festively opened.

Source: TU/e
Foto: Bart van Overbeeke