Accurate information about the size and frequency of droplets produced by any type of liquid dispersal system is the first and probably most important step to the most efficient design of any spray application.

Nozzles and atomizers used on aircraft are usually mounted on a boom under the trailing edge of the wing. These aircraft fly at speeds in excess of 240 km/hr (150 mph). To measure the size and frequency of droplets that the nozzles produce would be difficult without the use of a wind tunnel.

Relocated in the spring of 2003, and extensively upgraded, the H.J. Irving - J.J.C. Picot Wind Tunnel testing facility is used for droplet size determination and other research purposes. The 15 metre long (50 ft) Wind Tunnel is an open circuit tunnel with a 1 metre (40 inch) diameter closed test section. A 250 horsepower, 550 volt electric motor with a computerized variable frequency speed controller can produce wind speed in excess of 250 km/hr (155 mph) through the test section. A boom and test nozzle is placed within the air stream and a Malvern 2600C laser particle spectrometer is used to measure the quantity and size of droplets produced. A 2.6 x 3.5 metre (8.5 x 11.5 ft) filter section at the outlet collects the droplets.

To request information about the H.J. Irving - J.J.C. Picot Wind Tunnel and how it can help with your project, please contact us.