Cryogenic wind tunnels for high Reynolds number testing

Abstract

This paper begins with a brief review of cryogenic wind tunnels and their use for high Reynolds number testing. Emphasis is on operational experience and recent aerodynamic tesing in the NASA Langley 0.3-m Transonic Cryogenic Tunnel (TCT). Specific area covered in this paper include development of test techniques and aerodynamic testing in cryogenic tunnels. Details of research experience in developing model construction techniques, including airfoils as thin as 5 percent, are given. The use of advanced testing techniques to increase the value of cryogenic tunnels to the research community is recommended. These include adaptive wall test sections using solid but flexible top and bottom walls and magnetic suspension and balance systems.