Wind Tunnel Simulates Ground Effects

November 9th, 2006

Pininfarina’s new Ground Effect Simulation System uses three belts in combination to simulate ground effects. Installed in the full-scale Automotive Wind Tunnel of the Pininfarina Aerodynamic Centre in Grugliasco (Turin), the new system costs 4 million euros and replaces the single-belt system installed in 1995.

The new system is part of Pininfarina’s strategy to extend the range of services offered to auto makers. The Wind Tunnel was originally built in 1972, and for a long time, was the only wind tunnel in Italy. It is used not only for the aerodynamic and aeroacoustic tests for cars manufactured in Pininfarina’s facilities, but also to test products for other companies.

The overall width of the upstream end of the moving ground has been increased from 1.0 m to 2.5 m, for a length of 1.5 m, by the installation of 3 belts side by side. The central belt is 6.7 m long and the two side belts are 1.5 m long, extending from the front of the central belt to the front wheels.

According to Antonello Cogotti, the large width of the moving ground front end is important for front-wing and front-diffuser equipped racing cars, as well as for conventional cars with wheel housings. The improved simulation of the flow upstream of the front wheels improves the flow around the wheels and within the wheel-housings, and will lead to a better flow under the vehicle.

The maximum velocity of the three belts has been increased to 250 km/h (it was 200 in the old system), to reach the same maximum speed as the wind, increased itself to 250 km/h since 2005 through the installation of a 13 fans system.

For further information, visit the Pininfarina website.

Entry Filed under: Aerodynamics, Test Labs