RESEARCH
BRIDGING THE GAP WITH RESEARCH
Seeking the strongest understanding of problems to innovate the next solution
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kinds of testing can be done in the HALO wind tunnel?
While the HALO wind tunnel is capable of aerodynamic, aeroacoustic, and racing testing, the facility is only open to external users for aeroacoustic testing or testing involving wind-only needs.
What’s the range of wind speed for testing?
The wind tunnel can achieve a speed range up to 310 kph (192 mph).
What temperature range is the HALO wind tunnel capable of?
Thanks to the heat exchanger, the HALO wind tunnel can test from 10-50⁰ Celsius (50-122⁰ Fahrenheit).
How quiet is the test section when the wind tunnel is running?
<57dBA at 87 mph, as outlined in the diagram of the circuit
What type of system is used to measure aeroacoustics?
There are a series of microphone arrays—top, front, sides, and interior—made up of 502 external microphones and cameras and 54 internal microphones for use for sound source detection. Aachen heads are also utilized for interior vehicle acoustic analysis. This aeroacoustic array system has an external noise source accuracy of 5.0 cm.
How long does it take to move between tests?
The HALO wind tunnel is incredibly efficient when progressing from one test to the next. Two key components that make this possible.
- First, the test plan is preloaded into the control system. After the desired wind speed is reached, the data acquisition system starts gathering data. When data collection is complete, the control system advances to the next test step.
- Secondly, the speed at which conditions stabilize—allowing repeatable data to be gathered—is 20 seconds.
What other design features create a unique testing advantage for the HALO wind tunnel?
Turntable: The 12-meter turntable, where the item to be tested is secured, can rotate 180⁰.
Access: There are two doorways to the test section, allowing for efficient loading and unloading.
Spacious: The control room was designed with adequate space for your entire team.
How long does it take to install and remove a vehicle in the test section?
We can load a vehicle into the test section in less than 30 minutes.
What working space will I have at the HALO wind tunnel?
Each customer will have secure badge-controlled access to a shop bay with tools, a surface plate, work benches, a kitchenette, restroom, and a private office area with conference room.
When your testing session begins, not only is the control room large enough for your entire team, and it also provides a dedicated break area, private meeting room, and work bench for any minor part modifications.
Our badge reader system allows zone control so that all wind tunnel users maintain strict confidentiality.
How will I receive my data?
As testing progresses, your data will continually be written to a removable, passcode-protected hard drive that you will take with you upon completion of your testing.
When can I expect to get my results?
Results are viewable in real-time as testing progresses. You can do any additional post-processing and analysis utilizing the raw files on the secure hard drive provided.
Is photography permitted during testing?
Yes. To support confidentiality in the facility, a digital camera with a new memory card will be provided for your use during your test session. The memory card is yours to take with you upon completion of your testing.
We also have video cameras in the test section, and any video footage recorded during your testing time can be downloaded for your use.
You are permitted to take pictures in your bay area, office areas, and in the test section during your test.
What type of support will I receive during my test session at HALO?
Leading up to your test, a program manager will be your main point of contact. While onsite, you will primarily be working with a tunnel operator, test technician, and acoustic engineer (as needed).
Who is allowed to access the customer bay besides the customer?
Only the customer team and the third-party contractors who will be supporting your test. The badge reader system we use allows zone control and ensures strict confidentiality.
Do my team members need to complete any technical training prior to HALO wind tunnel testing?
We’ll work with you about what setting, filters, and other needs you have for your tests. We will have an engineer onsite during testing to support post-processing. If you would like to do additional data analysis after leaving the HALO wind tunnel, we can provide contacts for the appropriate licensing.
How long is a test day?
Your test session will run 7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., continuously. Testing is available on Saturday and Sunday.
What food is available? Are meals provided during testing?
Due to the continuous testing cycle, we provide lunch and a full assortment of snacks and beverages throughout your test session. We do not stop testing for breaks, unless you opt to have a break.
What hours am I able to be onsite in my customer areas?
Our testing hours are 7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. daily. Site access is available 6:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
How do I reserve time at the HALO wind tunnel?
Contact us at info@HALOwindtunnel.com or fill out our contact form.
What kind of research do you do within the HALO wind tunnel?
We are in the process of establishing a research consortium bringing together industry and academia. More details to come in early 2024.
Who oversees the research programs?
We are partnering with local academia to lead the research.
Where can I learn more and become involved?
Check back here for more details or follow our LinkedIn Page for the latest news on becoming involved in research with the HALO wind tunnel.
We’re here to take your wind tunnel experience to the next level.