Aeroprobe Omniprobe 15-hole flow measurement probes

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Key features

• 15-hole spherical probe tip for multidirectional flow measurement
• Measures flow angles up to ±150° with straight Omniprobe configurations
• NIST-traceable aerodynamic calibration with high measurement accuracy

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Omniprobe for complex 3D flow measurement

The Aeroprobe Omniprobe is a specialised 15-hole flow measurement probe designed for complex three-dimensional flows with large variations in flow direction. It is particularly suitable for aerodynamic testing where the predominant flow direction is unknown or may reverse during measurement.

Unlike conventional multi-hole probes with a more limited angular measurement range, the Omniprobe uses a spherical, micro-machined tip with 15 pressure ports. This design enables straight Omniprobes to measure flow angles up to ±150°, making them suitable for highly swirling flows and complex wake regions.

Typical applications include automotive aerodynamics, rolling-road wind tunnels, wind engineering and combustor flow research.

15-hole spherical probe design

The Omniprobe measures pressure at 15 locations around its spherical tip. The pressure distribution is evaluated using aerodynamic calibration data to determine the local flow velocity and direction.

The probe is available with tip diameters of 6.35 mm and 9.53 mm. Its design enables measurements in flow fields where conventional probes may not provide sufficient angular coverage.

Aeroprobe offers NIST-traceable aerodynamic calibration, with up to 9,000 discrete calibration points per speed. This supports measurements across a wide range of flow directions.

Applications of Aeroprobe Omniprobes

Automotive aerodynamics

Measure complex airflow around vehicle wheels, wheel housings and in the wake behind vehicles. The Omniprobe is particularly useful for investigating highly three-dimensional flow structures during wind tunnel testing.

Rolling-road wind tunnel testing

Analyse airflow around rotating wheels and beneath vehicles in rolling-road wind tunnels. The wide angular measurement range supports measurements in regions with strong flow deflection and recirculation.

Wind engineering

Investigate complex wind patterns around structures and experimental models. Omniprobes are suitable for applications where the dominant flow direction is not known in advance.

Combustor and swirling flow research

Measure airflow in combustors and other systems with strong swirl or flow reversal. The spherical probe design enables measurements across a wider angular range than conventional multi-hole probes.

Aerodynamic calibration and measurement accuracy

Aeroprobe Omniprobes are supplied with high-accuracy, NIST-traceable aerodynamic calibration.

According to the manufacturer, the probes achieve an angle error of less than ±2° and a velocity error of less than ±2 m/s. The applicable performance depends on the selected probe configuration, calibration and measurement conditions.

Omniprobes are suitable for air and non-reactive gases, with temperature ratings up to 500°C.

Selecting the right Omniprobe

The appropriate Omniprobe configuration depends on the expected flow velocity, angular range, temperature, available installation space and required measurement accuracy.

Althen Sensors & Controls helps engineers evaluate these requirements and select a suitable Aeroprobe flow measurement solution.

Please contact Althen to discuss your aerodynamic measurement application.ad wind tunnels