Aerodynamics & Propeller Testing Centre (APT)
Who we are
The Aerodynamics & Propeller Testing Centre (APT) provides advanced experimental facilities for investigating aerodynamic performance and propulsion systems. Using wind tunnels and dedicated propeller test rigs, APT enables researchers to measure forces, moments, flow characteristics, efficiency, thrust and power consumption under controlled conditions. The facility supports testing of scaled aircraft models, racing cars, drones and UAVs, propellers, rotor systems, tall buildings, bridges and other structures exposed to wind loading.
APT bridges the gap between theoretical predictions, numerical simulations and real-world performance. Researchers and Engineers can validate computational models, evaluate new designs, optimize aerodynamic efficiency and assess structural responses to wind effects before committing to full-scale prototypes.
The centre enables accessible, reliable aerodynamic and propulsion testing across aerospace, civil, mechanical and renewable energy applications. By providing accurate performance measurements and design validation capabilities, APT helps engineers accelerate innovation, mitigate risk and generate evidence-based insights for publications, industry collaborations and technology development.
UNSW Canberra City
APT is part of UNSW Canberra City – our collaborative innovation ecosystem – where shared facilities and co-working spaces bring together researchers, industry partners, entrepreneurs and students to rapidly move ideas from design to real-world application.
Capabilities
Our equipment
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Measures aerodynamic forces and moments acting on sting-mounted models with high accuracy.
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Acquires surface pressure measurements on scaled aircraft, drone, and building models for aerodynamic and wind engineering studies.
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Enables automated measurement procedures and precise positioning of probes and test objects within the wind tunnel, supporting remote operation and repeatable testing.
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Provides qualitative flow visualisation to reveal flow patterns, separation regions, vortices, and wake structures around test models.
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An alternate method for visualising flow around objects. Provides quantitative velocity measurements when combined with event-based imaging system. The centre has several high speed cameras (Chronos and Photron) for capturing dynamics of fluid structure interactions on wind turbine blades, drones and beyond.
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Measures velocity, turbulence intensity, and thermal flow characteristics in and around wind tunnel test models and their wakes.
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Facilitates the implementation and evaluation of active control algorithms for prototype systems, enabling real-time optimisation of aerodynamic performance.
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Measures aerodynamic forces and moments acting on sting-mounted models with high accuracy.
-
Acquires surface pressure measurements on scaled aircraft, drone, and building models for aerodynamic and wind engineering studies.
-
Enables automated measurement procedures and precise positioning of probes and test objects within the wind tunnel, supporting remote operation and repeatable testing.
-
Provides qualitative flow visualisation to reveal flow patterns, separation regions, vortices, and wake structures around test models.
-
An alternate method for visualising flow around objects. Provides quantitative velocity measurements when combined with event-based imaging system. The centre has several high speed cameras (Chronos and Photron) for capturing dynamics of fluid structure interactions on wind turbine blades, drones and beyond.
-
Measures velocity, turbulence intensity, and thermal flow characteristics in and around wind tunnel test models and their wakes.
-
Facilitates the implementation and evaluation of active control algorithms for prototype systems, enabling real-time optimisation of aerodynamic performance.
Our people
How to access
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Prospective users should contact the Centre Director Dr Krishna Talluru to discuss their research objectives, testing requirements, equipment needs and proposed timelines.
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A meeting will be arranged to assess project feasibility, facility suitability, resource requirements, scheduling and any technical or safety considerations.
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External users may also receive a cost estimate at this stage.
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Users must complete required laboratory induction, safety training, and equipment-specific training before being granted access. Training requirements will depend on the facilities and equipment to be used.
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Upon completion of the required training and approval by the Academic Lead, users will be granted access to the facility. Access permissions may be provided for independent use or supervised operation, depending on the user's experience and the nature of the testing activities.
Fees
The Aerodynamics & Propeller Testing Centre (APT) is available free of charge to UNSW researchers for research and educational purposes, subject to facility availability and operational requirements. External users, including industry partners and researchers from other institutions, may access the facilities on a fee-for-service basis.
As testing requirements vary significantly depending on the project scope, the use of equipment, and the level of technical support required, pricing is determined on a case-by-case basis. External users are encouraged to contact the Academic Lead to discuss their requirements and obtain a quotation.
Contact us
Aerodynamics & Propeller Testing centre (APT)
Room 104, BLDG 16
UNSW Canberra, Northcott Drive, Campbell, ACT 2612
Email: k.talluru@unsw.edu.au
Phone: +61 2 5114 5331
We invite you to experience our innovation precinct firsthand. Reach out to our team today to discuss your strategic goals and arrange a tour of UNSW Canberra City and our facilities.
We like to hear from you. If you have questions, requests or ideas for collaboration, please complete the contact form and we will be in touch within five business days.
Get in touch about your project
We offer a range of services that can be tailored to your needs. Please send us an enquiry to get started.