National Propeller Test Bed (NPTB)

The National Propeller Test Bed (NPTB), currently under development, is an advanced propeller testing platform, to be initially operated at the University's A1 wind tunnel.
The NPTB is designed from scratch to enable efficient and detailed propeller aerodynamic experimental dataset generation by incorporating cutting-edge rotating DAQ systems, modular architecture, advanced features and instrumentation, and a powerful compact drive system. It provides a comprehensive and versatile testing platform for new propeller and prop-rotor designs as well as exploring various airframe integrations, addressing the needs of emerging UAM and eVTOL markets for high-fidelity empirical datasets.

 

The NPTB is being developed from the ground up to enable large-scale, reliable wind tunnel data collection campaigns in the UK, with key capabilities including:

  • On-blade instrumentation (e.g., embedded strain gauges and unsteady pressure transducers)
  • High-bandwidth, multichannel rotating DAQ System
  • Forward and edgewise flight operation
  • 6-DOF hub load measurement via a rotating shaft balance        
  • Interchangeable blades and hub
  • Automated precision collective-pitch mechanism
  • Mounting points for airframe integration studies
The baseline configuration features a 0.8 m propeller diameter driven by a 90 kW liquid-cooled electric motor, allowing operating speeds of up to 8,000 RPM. The system is also designed to accommodate a range of propeller diameters and blade numbers, offering the flexibility needed to support cutting-edge academic and industrial propeller research.

 

The NPTB's development is funded by the National Wind Tunnel Facility (NWTF) through the EPSRC UKRI Infrastructure Fund.