PDF (1941) - CaltechCampusPubs

120
CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
4. Experimental and theoretical researches on
(a) the basic problems of flow in real fluids with regard to
the scientific foundations of technical hydro- and aerodynamics;
(b) the basic problems of Applied Mechanics which relate to
the properties of materials and the theory of elasticity;
( c) practical problems in aerodynamics and structures, especially
as applied to aeronautics;
(d) meteorological problems dealing in particular with the
properties and behavior of air masses;
(e) the development of meteorological instruments, especially
of the radiometeorograph type.
The largest item of equipment available for experimental research
is a wind tunnel of the Gottingen closed circuit type with a working
section 10 feet in diameter. Provision is made for using the working
section either as an open or closed type. A 750 horsepower, dircctcurrent
motor drives a 15 -foot propeller, and a wind velocity of
considerably more than 200 miles per hour has been produced. A
complete set of aerodynamical balances permits the rapid testing of
complete airplane models as well as the undertaking of all types of
scientific investigations in the wind tunnel. A fluid mechanics laboratory
contains several smaller wind tunnels and a considerable
amount of auxiliary apparatus especially suitable for the study of the
basic problems connected with turbulent flows. A large structures
laboratory has been equipped with specially designed testing machines
for researches dealing chiefly with the problems connected with the
modern use of stressed skin or monocoque structures. A completely
equipped photoelasticity laboratory is being used for researches on
the distribution of stresses in various complicated types of structure.
The practical work in synoptic meteorology is facilitated by a
teletype installation connecting the laboratory with the U. S. Weather
Bureau network of observing stations. Complete instrumental equipment
is available for meteorological instruction and research. In