The balance mechanism enables test models with a rigid support arm to be mounted and held securely in position in the working section of the wind tunnel.
The arm transmits the force on the test model directly to a strain gauged load cell.
The load cell is connected to a readout unit with a digital display, which is powered by a desktop power supply (included).
The drag force is measured first, then students rotate the balance mechanism through 90 degrees and repeat the test to measure the lift force.
When mounted in the base of the wind tunnel working section, the balance measures the drag force only.
This is useful for a variety of investigations such as wind loadings on tall buildings.
It can also be used to measure drag forces on model vehicles enabling students to determine and compare coefficients of drag.
To measure the lift and drag forces on models, the balance mounts on the side of the working section of the wind tunnel.
