Design of an accessible turbulence chamber for laboratory experiments

Homogeneous isotropic turbulence (HIT) chambers provide a valuable platform for experimentally studying turbulence across a wide range of systems. Existing designs are often characterized by high cost, complex fabrication requirements, and reliance on outsourced components. To address these challenges, we present a low-cost, accessible, and open-source HIT chamber that can be fabricated entirely in-house. The chamber consists of a truncated cube-shaped steel frame with acrylic windows, with a volume of 5.5 liters. Turbulence is generated using eight propellers driven by DC motors, providing controlled agitation of the flow. To assess the performance of our design, particle image velocimetry (PIV) was used to quantify the statistical properties of the turbulence. The design leverages simple machining processes and readily available parts, making it practical for laboratories regardless of resources. This open-source design aims to broaden access to HIT experimentation and provide a cost-effective platform for turbulence research and education.