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Case Studies | Aerodynamics | 17th March 2025

Enhancing Engineering Education with the Subsonic Wind Tunnel (AF1300) at the University of Bedfordshire

At TecQuipment, we take pride in providing world-class engineering teaching equipment that empowers students with real-life understanding and hands-on experience. One of our most versatile and widely used products is a Subsonic Wind Tunnel, which recently found a home at the University of Bedfordshire in their Mechanical Engineering Automation Lab.

Installation of the Subsonic Wind Tunnel (AF1300)

Our very own Dave Giddings from TecQuipment visited the University of Bedfordshire, Luton, UK to install the AF1300 wind tunnel and ensure it was set up to enable teaching and research applications.

Key Components of the Wind Tunnel

The Subsonic Wind Tunnel (AF1300) is designed to provide students with practical insights into aerodynamics and consists of several critical components:

  • Inlet Section: Air is drawn in through a specially designed shaped profile to ensure a smooth airflow into the working section.
  • Working Section: This is where experiments take place, allowing students and researchers to fit models—either from TecQuipment’s range or custom designs created by the university.
  • Measurement Points: The wind tunnel enables upstream and downstream pressure measurements, essential for conducting tests such as wake traverse studies.
  • Fan and Exhaust: The tunnel operates on a suction principle, where air is drawn in and then expelled efficiently through a silencer to minimise noise levels in the laboratory.

A Valuable Addition to the University of Bedfordshire’s Engineering Programmes

Senior Lecturer Rohitha Weerasinghe highlighted the importance of the wind tunnel for the university’s teaching and research activities. The Mechanical Engineering and Automotive Engineering programmes at the University of Bedfordshire will utilise the AF1300 for undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, including:

  • Mechanical Engineering (BEng & MEng)
  • Automotive Engineering (BEng & MEng)
  • Mechanical Engineering (Postgraduate)
  • Automotive Engineering for Electric Vehicles (Postgraduate)

With aerodynamics being a key area of study, the wind tunnel will be instrumental in providing students with a hands-on learning experience, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Additionally, faculty members will leverage the equipment for research projects, further contributing to advancements in the field of aerodynamics.

Why the AF1300 Subsonic Wind Tunnel?

The AF1300 is a perfect choice for universities looking to enhance their engineering curriculum with state-of-the-art experimental tools. It offers:

  • Versatility – Suitable for a wide range of aerodynamics experiments.
  • Real-World Application – Provides students with practical experience in testing aerodynamic principles preparing them for careers in engineering.
  • Customisation – Universities can use TecQuipment models or develop their own test models.
Explaining the type of models that the university might replicate and test

TecQuipment: Supporting Engineering Education Worldwide

At TecQuipment, we are committed to equipping universities with high-quality, industry-relevant teaching tools. The installation of the AF1300 Subsonic Wind Tunnel at the University of Bedfordshire is just one example of how we support institutions in delivering exceptional engineering education.

To learn more about our aerodynamics range and how our equipment can enhance your engineering curriculum, visit TecQuipment’s website or contact us today!

Watch the installation video here:

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