The Integration and Validation of a Class 3B Laser for Stereo Particle Imaging Velocimetry

Particle Imaging Velocimetry (PIV) is a laser flow diagnostic measurement technique used to measure spatial and temporal velocity fields. In an effort to promote experimental aerodynamic research, specifically an entry point for students to learn Particle Imaging Velocimetry, an in-house Class 3B laser PIV system was developed and its experimental results were verified with a Class 4 laser. Both systems were integrated on the Cal Poly Water Tunnel Laboratory. The work emphasizes the application of lasers controlled by a micro-controller to perform microsecond-based pulses and integrating a newly-developed device with an old system consisting of software, cameras, and synchronizers. The flow measurements in both freestream and two specific cylinder cases were found to demonstrate consistency between the systems. The Class 3B laser system opens an avenue for making the PIV technique more accessible for laboratory classes while significantly reducing the risks surrounding laser safety that are typically common with Class 4 laser systems. A collection of freestream and cylinder cases were used to compare the performance of the system to the Class 4 Laser and demonstrated that the Class 3B laser system is a viable approach for flow with low Reynolds number flows and velocities up to 6.8 cm/s.