Checklist

Once you've completed installation of your test article, follow these steps when ready to power-up the tunnel.

Note that this checklist only covers baseline operation of the tunnel itself and the air flow meter. The operation of any other equipment is regarded as experiment-specific and thus should be covered in its own checklist.

Prepare the space

• Clear the inlet area of any foreign objects

• Clear the outlet area of any foreign objects

• Ensure tunnel side panels are securely fastened

• Clear the test section of any tools, parts, or any other object not part of the test article

Prepare the instruments

• Visually check that the front-most pitot-static tube is facing directly into the flow within a few degrees or so (if it is not, DO NOT attempt to straighten it yourself - email Lee Whitcher who will arrange for it to be fixed)

• Power on the FlowKinetics air flow meter and follow the prompts to calibrate

If the FlowKinetics is already on may want to consider power cycling it and re-calibrating to account for any changes to ambient conditions

• Set the FlowKinetics selector switch to your desired speed unit and verify that the measured flow speed is zero, or thereabouts

Power on the tunnel

• Turn on the master breaker switch

• Ensure all personnel are inside the control room

• Initial safety test

  • On the fan control panel, set the desired speed to a low setting (40% is a good starting point)

  • Press RUN - the fan will start spooling up

  • As the fan accelerates, keep an eye on the test section and the outlet area - covering the STOP button in case anything untoward happens

  • Verify your test article is secure and there are no visible hazards once the fan has reached steady-state

• Max load test

  • On the fan control panel, set the desired speed to the highest setting you will use during the test (maximum is ideal, if your test article can take it)

  • As the fan accelerates, keep an eye on the test section and the outlet area - covering the STOP button in case anything untoward happens

  • Verify your test article is secure and there are no visible hazards once the fan has reached steady-state

• Adjust the power dial until you achieve your desired air speed

• If you need to go out of the control room, you may now do so, but you must wear eye protection in case some foreign matter gets ejected down the tunnel. NEVER go in the test section, or stand at the outlet, while the tunnel is running!

Power down the tunnel

• Hit the STOP button on the fan control panel

• If your testing is complete, turn off the master breaker switch

At the end of your session

• Report any issues/malfunctions to Lee Whitcher

• Power off the FlowKinetics flow meter

• Turn off the master breaker switch

• Tidy all areas and remove your test article and all equipment/tools