Aeromechanical Systems Group

The Aeromechanical Systems Group (ASG) is a research group based at the Defence Academy of the UK in Shrivenham, with diverse expertise in both aeronautical and power systems. Occupying the Aeronautics Centre and the Intelligent Propulsion and Emissions Laboratory (IPEL), the Group conducts experimental and computational research in the fields of aerial vehicle and weapon aerodynamics and performance, hybrid vehicle propulsion and performance, and combustion engine emissions control.

The Aeronautics Centre is home to 9 wind tunnels, ranging in size and speed from the the 150mm supersonic tunnel to the impressive Houghton wind tunnel made for professional automotive racing models. The IPEL houses three separate engine test cells, used for monitoring emissions or power output of combustion engines. It is also the home to one 100kW electric motor/brake system and a 300BHP Eddie Current brake system for propulsion loading applications.

Current research projects within the ASG include flapping-wing micro air vehicle UAV aerodynamics and design, jet fluid mechanics and aeroacoustics, urban UAV gusting problems, hybrid electric and fuel-cell propulsion, diesel emission separation, transonic cavity flows and guided weapon aerodynamics.

Together with extensive experimental research facilities and a long history of supporting and graduating higher degree students, the ASG also delivers a wide variety of courses and MSc programmes to the Defence Academy of the United Kingdom and to industry.