Experimental investigation of the effects of mudflaps on wheel aerodynamics by means of a simulated moving ground

This work provides a foundation for designing aerodynamic mudflaps used in heavy-duty vehicles, which will help these vehicles become greener. First, a simulated moving ground consisting of a leading edge, roller setup and a novel tangential blowing system was devised as an alternative to the expensive conveyor belts necessary for pertinent...

Aerodynamics of trailer wheels in tandem: Experimental investigation into the effects of wheel rotation, trailer side-skirts, and wheel cavity covers

The increasing importance of drag reduction in commercial vehicles, traditionally motivated by rising energy costs, and more recently accelerated through policymaking in a bid to reduce emissions, has resulted in the development of increasingly sophisticated add-on aerodynamic devices for the semi-trailer. Of these devices, the greatest uptake...

Design and characterization of test facility for large angle diffusers

In industry, fired heaters are used to heat process fluids and to generate steam. The efficiency of these devices is increased with air preheating. Gnerally, the flow through the air preheaters is driven by a centrifugal fan, via forced draft. Through a widening transition duct (large angle diffuser), air flows from the fan towards the air...

Miniaturization of a Water-Jet Drill for Microfracture Surgery

As part of a larger project called “Healing Water” this thesis project investigated aspects of minimally invasive water-jet drilling as a technology to be used in micro-fracture surgery. Drilling prototypes were developed and tested to gain a better understanding of the potential and the behaviour of high-pressure water jets in conjunction with...