Energy and Sustainability Laboratory
Advancing sustainable solutions for energy systems
The Energy and Sustainability Lab is a unique space dedicated to advancing solutions for global environmental challenges. Focused on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable systems, the lab fosters interdisciplinary collaboration to address pressing issues such as decarbonisation, resource optimisation, and energy security.
A 180 kph (112 mph) sub-sonic wind tunnel, rolling road dynamometer, and a range of other experimental equipment allow students to observe and evaluate the working principles of different engineering systems. The practical activities in this laboratory reinforce understanding of the operational behaviour of thermo-fluid dynamic systems and allow comparison to scientific theory and numerical simulation.
Our researchers and technical support staff collaborate with industry to drive impactful change, advancing low-carbon technologies, and sustainable development initiatives. Businesses can partner with the lab for bespoke research, consultancy services, and innovative solutions tailored to their sustainability goals.
Sub-sonic wind tunnel
Our £1.3 million closed-return wind tunnel is used for teaching, research and commercial purposes and allows us to investigate the relationship between airflow over an object and the aerodynamic loads generated. It provides a powerful resource for supporting research and development activities.
A precision six-component balance yields high-fidelity fluid-dynamic load data, balance yaw angle and model inclination adjustment systems allow a wide range of model positions and attitudes to be studied while a boundary layer removal system (BLRS) on the floor of the test section enables us to simulate the conditions necessary for automotive testing work.
A digital image correlation (DIC) system allows us to study the aeroelastic behaviour of models, quantifying the deformation of a body due to the aerodynamic loads generated and smoke flow visualisation can be used to gain qualitative insight into the nature of flow. Data from such tests can be used to both inform and drive engineering design work and can also generate validation data for numerical models.
The flexibility of the facility allows us to work on a wide variety of applications across a range of industries, contact the team to talk more about your requirements and to learn more about the services we can offer.
- Test section: 1.5 m wide x 1.0 m high x 3.0 m long with transparent walls and ceiling. LED lighting allows a clear view of the test section's interior
- Speed: Maximum of 50 m/s (112 mph)
- Force measurement: six-component external balance (floor-mounted) measures lift, drag and side forces as well as roll, pitch and yaw moments
- Boundary layer removal system (BLRS)
- Digital image correlation (DIC) system
- Smoke flow visualisation
- Integrated cooling system maintains a constant air temperature, ensuring flow conditions remain stable during tunnel operation
Balance load range
- Drag: +/- 400N
- Side: +/- 1000N
- Lift: +/- 1000N
- Roll: +/- 300Nm
- Pitch: +/- 200Nm
- Yaw: +/- 200Nm
Our facilities for your research and commercial activities
At the Energy and Sustainability Laboratory:
- Incorporate our state-of-the-art facilities into your R&D programs
- Accurately quantify fluid-dynamic loads using a precision six-component force measurement balance
- Use our digital image correlation (DIC) system to visualise and measure aeroelastic deformation due to fluid-dynamic loads
- Obtain high-fidelity validation data to support the development of numerical models
Contact us to view or book this facility
enterprisesolutions@plymouth.ac.uk
Facilities for research, innovation and learning
At Plymouth, students can access cutting-edge laboratories that offer experience in real-world applications. Our facilities enhance learning, help develop practical skills, and foster collaboration on innovative projects, all preparing students to tackle complex challenges in their fields.
Our specialised equipment supports pioneering transdisciplinary research and commercial ventures, driving innovation, developing solutions to pressing global challenges, and making meaningful contributions to both industry and society.
