Purdue University is adding a Hypersonic Pulse (HYPULSE) shock tunnel to its research facilities. Credit: Northrop Grumman photo.

Purdue University has received Hypersonic Pulse (HYPULSE) shock tunnel to boost its hypersonics research capabilities.

Donated by Northrop Grumman, the capability will make Purdue the second US university to provide such a capability.

Work on disassembling the 150ft-long tunnel is currently being carried out. Following this, it will be transported from New York to Indiana.

Purdue University research and partnerships executive vice-president Theresa Mayer said: “Purdue is continuing to invest in infrastructure to support hypersonics research and education and will open the HYPULSE tunnel for collaboration with external organisations.

“This will allow researchers from across academia, industry and the government to access the unique test conditions enabled by HYPULSE for their most demanding aerothermodynamic experiments.”

The tunnel will permit the university to carry out flight simulations at speeds from Mach 5 to up to Mach 40.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData

Tick here to opt out of curated industry news, reports, and event updates from Airforce Technology.

Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Northrop Grumman Propulsion Systems and Controls director John Hayes said: “At Northrop Grumman, we are committed to increasing STEM educational opportunities that engage, excite and educate students.

“The HYPULSE tunnel will help students from across the country conduct in-depth research into the world of hypersonic applications.”

Data from higher Mach numbers helps improve the understanding of flow physics.

In February, a $5.9m contract was awarded to Purdue University from the US Air Force Research Laboratory to develop the first quiet Mach 8 wind tunnel.

In March, Rolls-Royce launched an engine controls capability at Purdue University to assemble and test electronic engine controllers.