Exploring Aerodynamics Through A Wind Tunnel

Gallery

Components

1. Fan (Air Source) – pulls air through the tunnel to simulate wind speed and reduce turbulence.
2. Flow Straightener – bundle of drinking straws to ensure smooth, laminar airflow.
3. Contraction Cone – narrowing section that increases airflow velocity.
4. Test Section – transparent rectangular chamber for mounting and observing car models.
5. Diffuser – expanding section after the test area that slows air and reduces turbulence.
6. Smoke Visualization System – tubes releasing smoke (from incense or glycerin fog) to make airflow visible.
7. Cardboard sheets – for building tunnel walls and structure.
8. Acrylic sheets – for transparent test section windows.
9. Glue, tape, and cutter – for assembly and sealing joints.
10. Car models (Sedan and Formula One) – test subjects for aerodynamic analysis.

Instructions

Step 1: Design and Planning

Sketch the overall design of the wind tunnel, including the intake, contraction cone, test section, and diffuser. Choose dimensions proportional to the size of the test models to ensure smooth airflow.

Step 2: Building the Frame

Construct the tunnel body using sturdy cardboard panels. Cut and assemble rectangular sections for the intake, test chamber, and outlet, sealing all edges with glue or tape to prevent air leakage.

Step 3: Installing the Fan

Attach a household fan securely at the rear end of the tunnel to act as the air source. Ensure the airflow direction pulls air through the tunnel rather than pushing, to reduce turbulence near the models.

Step 4: Adding the Flow Straightener

Place a tightly packed bundle of drinking straws at the intake section. This straightener eliminates air swirls and helps maintain laminar flow before air enters the test section.

Step 5: Creating the Contraction Cone

Build a narrowing cardboard section between the intake and the test area to accelerate airflow, following the principle of continuity (A?V? = A?V?).

Step 6: Assembling the Test Section

Construct a clear rectangular chamber using acrylic sheets for visibility. Mount the car model at the center, ensuring it is stable and level with the airflow path.

Step 7: Adding the Diffuser

Attach an expanding section at the outlet end of the tunnel to slow the airflow smoothly and minimize turbulence as it exits the system.

Step 8: Installing the Smoke Visualization System

Connect thin tubes or straws near the intake to release smoke from incense sticks or glycerin vapor. This will make the airflow visible around the test models.

Step 9: Testing and Observation

Power on the fan and observe the airflow using the smoke streams. Note areas of laminar and turbulent flow, wake formation, and lift or downforce differences between the sedan and Formula One models.

Step 10: Data Collection

Record observations through photos or video. Compare smoke patterns, drag behavior, and flow separation points to evaluate aerodynamic efficiency.

Code

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