The National Full-Scale Aerodynamics Complex (NFAC) is a unique combination of wind tunnels that allow the testing of aerodynamic and dynamic models at full or large scale. It can even accommodate actual aircraft with their engines running. Maintaining full-scale Reynolds numbers and testing with surface irregularities, protuberances, and control surface gaps that either closely match the full-scale or indeed are those of the full-scale aircraft help produce test data that accurately predict what can be expected from future flight investigations. This complex has grown from the venerable 40- by 80-ft wind tunnel that has served for over 40 years helping researchers obtain data to better understand the aerodynamics of a wide range of aircraft from helicopters to the space shuttle. A recent modification to the tunnel expanded its maximum speed capabilities, added a new 80- by 120-ft test section and provided extensive acoustic treatment. The modification is certain to make the NFAC an even more useful facility for NASA's ongoing research activities. A brief background is presented on the original facility and the kind of testing that has been accomplished using it through the years. A summary of the modification project and the measured capabilities of the two test sections is followed by a review of recent testing activities and of research projected for the future.


    Access

    Access via TIB

    Check availability in my library


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Research at NASA's NFAC wind tunnels


    Contributors:

    Conference:

    International Session of the Japan Society for Aeronautical and Space Sciences (JSASS) Aircraft Symposium ; 1989 ; Fukuoka, Japan


    Publication date :

    1990-06-01


    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English




    Research at NASA's NFAC Wind Tunnels

    H. K. Edenborough | NTIS | 1990


    National Full-Scale Aerodynamics Complex, NFAC

    Van Aken, Johannes | AIAA | 2010


    Inlet development for the NFAC 80- by 120-foot indraft wind tunnel

    VAN AKEN, JOHANNES / ROSS, JAMES / ZELL, PETER | AIAA | 1988