(CWT-1) at the von Karman Institute for Fluid Dynamics can achieve maximum flow from velocities of 65m/s within seconds. Running in a close-loop configuration, it can work at flow temperatures as low as -30°C. Additionnally, large double-glazing walls at the test section provide optical access for flow visualization.
Sonaca Aircraft will provide flight testing support for the validation in flight of specific coating and cleaning solutions. These flights will enable the comparison of different products and identify the best one, before applying them on a commercial air transport aircraft for long-term testing.
In the STELLAR Project, SONACA will manufacture demonstrators for wind tunnel tests performed at VKI, short flight tests performed with Sonaca Aircraft S-200 and tests will be performed to evaluate the coating performances on a commercial aircraft.