It is the aim of this project to upgrade an existing facility used o determine flow velocities in a laboratory experiment associated with a fluid mechanics course. The facility currently uses a single-channel laser-doppler velocimeter (LDV), which limits measurements to one dimension. Flow systems of engineering interest are rarely one dimensional. This facility is upgraded to a double-base system which can measure two components of flow velocity simultaneously. Experiments to be performed illustrate more completely the concepts of fluid mechanics taught in the course and train the students in the theory and use of a state-of- the-art instrument. Laser-doppler velocimetry has made possible the measurement of flow velocities with much greater accuracy and precision than was possible previously. In addition, it is a non-invasive technique not strongly dependent upon the properties and composition of the flow medium and can be used over a velocity range of more than six orders of magnitude. Because of these reasons, it is widely used to measure flow conditions in wind tunnels, narrow passages, rotating machinery, combustion systems, flames, and plasmas.
