Mathematical modeling of the AEDC-PWT 16-ft Transonic Wind Tunnel

An empirically based model of the 16-ft Transonic Wind Tunnel (16T), at the Arnold Engineering Development Center (AEDC), has been developed for calculating the distribution of tunnel component pressure losses and the effect of changes in these pressure losses on the tunnel total power requirements. The model consists of two separate computer programs. The Historical Program assesses tunnel performance from a historical data base which was acquired during prior tunnel operation. The Analytical Model uses component pressure-loss information calculated by the Historical Program to evaluate potential changes in tunnel component pressure losses with respect to the tunnel power level.

The model was used to assess the potential power savings for a modification to the 16T tunnel diffuser, which involves the replacement of the compressor protective screen. Results indicate that for each l-percent increase in diffuser recovery, a 4-percent decrease in main drive power will result. Less significant power savings were found for the other tunnel components.