Airports and Heliports
The safety and operability of airports and heliports can be influenced by turbulence and wind shear, and by proximity to sources of hot gases such as power stations.
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Turbulence and wind shear is caused primarily by the local natural topography such as mountainous or hilly terrain and by proximity to large man-made structures or buildings (e.g. terminal buildings and aircraft hangers). The disruption to the natural wind flows can have a serious effect on the performance and controllability of fixed wing aircraft and helicopters, and can result in operational restrictions being placed on the airport or heliport under certain wind conditions.
The presence of hot gases is also a potential hazard because increases in ambient air temperature reduce both lift and engine power. This is a particular issue for operations in close proximity to power generation equipment.
These aerodynamic effects can be studied at the design concept stage, and the results used by aircraft operators and pilots to maximise the safe and efficient operation of the airport or heliport.
Capabilities
- Boundary layer wind tunnel tests
- Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
- Modelling to estimate the effect on the performance and controllability of aircraft
Consultancy Services
- Effects of topographical or building generated turbulence and shear
- Power generation plumes and other thermal hazards
- Turbulence and shear due to planned building developments
- Estimation of influence on flight operations
- Wind loading on cladding, glazing and roofs
- Wind loading for structural design
- Wind environment for pedestrian and user comfort and safety
- Internal and external ventilation
- Air quality exposure of users and occupants
- Research