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Introductory course on the use of wind tunnels

Introduction to Wind Tunnel Use

This course provides a foundation in experimental aerodynamics, familiarizing participants with the design and operation of wind tunnels, from subsonic to supersonic tunnels, and their applications in aeronautical engineering, automotive design, and other disciplines. measurement techniques are explored, including force and moment measurement, and flow visualization, such as smoke traceability, to analyze airflow behavior around scale models. Emphasis is placed on the interpretation of obtained data and its application to optimize the aerodynamic design and performance of various objects.

This course combines theory with practice, including wind tunnel experiments, to develop the ability to analyze and evaluate aerodynamic performance. Participants learn to identify the key variables that influence airflow, apply analytical tools, and interpret the results to make informed design decisions. It prepares students for roles such as aerodynamic engineers, wind tunnel technicians, and numerical simulation specialists, strengthening employability in sectors such as aviation, automotive, and renewable energy.

Duration3 months
ModeHybrid
LanguageEnglish / Spanish
Start datesOctober / March
LocationEurope (Madrid)
AwardSEIUM Institute diploma
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Learning outcomes

What you will be able to do

01

Mastery of Aerodynamics: Introduction to the Wind Tunnel

02

Optimization of Aerodynamic Design Through Wind Tunnel Testing

03

Comprehensive user-oriented design and validation (from modeling to manufacturing)

04

Experimental Evaluation of Components in a Wind Tunnel

05

Experimental Exploration: Wind Tunnel Domain for Flow Study

06

Analysis and Design of Rotors: Applications in Wind Tunnels

07

Evaluation and Performance of Propellers in the Wind Tunnel

08

Analysis of Rotor Performance in Wind Tunnels

Profile

Who it's for

  • Students and graduates in Aerospace Engineering, with an interest in aircraft design and analysis.
  • Engineers from other disciplines (Mechanical, Industrial, Automation) who wish to expand their knowledge of aerodynamics.
  • Aerospace industry professionals: aircraft manufacturers (OEMs), maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) companies.
  • Consultants and staff from technology centers involved in aerospace research and development projects.
  • Experts in specific areas: Flight testing, aircraft certification, avionics systems, flight control, and dynamics.
  • UAM/eVTOL profiles (Urban Air Mobility/electric VTOL vehicles) vertical takeoff and landing), including regulators and authorities.
Standards & tools

What you'll work with

  • Standards-driven curriculum: you will work with CS-27/CS-29, DO-160, DO-178C/DO-254, ARP4754A/ARP4761, ADS-33E-PRF from the first module.
  • Accreditable laboratories (EN ISO/IEC 17025) with rotor bench, EMC/Lightning pre-compliance, HIL/SIL, vibrations/acoustics.
  • Evidence-oriented TFM: safety case, test plan, compliance dossierand operational limits.
  • Mentored by industry: teachers with experience in rotorcraft, tiltrotor, eVTOL/UAM and flight test.
  • Flexible modality (hybrid/online), international cohorts and support from SEIUM Career Services.
  • Ethics and security: safety-by-design approach, cyber-OT, DIH and compliance as pillars.
Syllabus

10 modules

  1. 1.1Fundamentals of Aerodynamics: Key principles and concepts.
  2. 1.2Types of Wind Tunnels: Design and operation.
  3. 1.3Wind Tunnel Components: Structure, instrumentation, and control.
  4. 1.4Airflow: Laminar and turbulent.
  5. 1.5Reynolds Number: Importance and application.
  6. 1.6Aerodynamic Measurements: Pressure, velocity, and force.
  7. 1.7Models and Scales: Design and construction of models for testing.
  8. 1.8Analysis Software: Introduction to simulation tools.
  9. 1.9Wind Tunnel Applications: Aerospace and automotive industries.
  10. 1.10Safety and Regulations: Operation and maintenance protocols.
  1. 2.2Fundamentals of Aerodynamic Design: Principles and Wind Tunnel Applications
  2. 2.2Airfoil Selection: Criteria and Methodologies in the Wind Tunnel
  3. 2.3Wing and Component Design: An Aerodynamic Approach with Wind Tunnel Testing
  4. 2.4Control Surface Optimization: Analysis and Tuning in the Wind Tunnel
  5. 2.5Fuselage Design: Aerodynamic Considerations and Wind Tunnel Testing
  6. 2.6CFD Modeling and Simulation: Validation with Wind Tunnel Data
  7. 2.7Flow Visualization Techniques: Applications in Wind Tunnels
  8. 2.8Wake Analysis: Impact on Design and Performance
  9. 2.9Cooling System Design: Testing and Optimization in the Wind Tunnel
  10. 2.20Case Studies: Successful Aerodynamic Design in the Wind Tunnel
  1. 3.3Introduction to Aerodynamics and Key Concepts
  2. 3.2Wind Tunnel Components and Types
  3. 3.3Operating Principles and Basic Instrumentation
  4. 3.4Wind Tunnel Calibration and Flow Control
  5. 3.5Initial Applications and Case Studies
  6. 2.3Fundamentals of Aerodynamic Design
  7. 2.2Aerodynamic Optimization Techniques
  8. 2.3Model Design and Preparation for Testing
  9. 2.4Testing Methodologies and Data Analysis
  10. 2.5Optimization Applications and Practical Examples
  11. 3.3Introduction to Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
  12. 3.2Fundamentals of Flow Theory and the Navier-Stokes Equations
  13. 3.3Preprocessing and Meshing for Simulations
  14. 3.4Results Analysis and Validation
  15. 3.5Comparison Between Simulation and Experiments
  16. 4.3Selection and Preparation of Components for Testing
  17. 4.2Design and Assembly of Supports and Measurement Systems
  18. 4.3Force and Pressure Measurement Techniques
  19. 4.4Data Analysis and Results Presentation
  20. 4.5Component Evaluation Case Studies
  21. 5.3Flow Visualization and Characterization
  22. 5.2Velocity and Turbulence Measurement Techniques
  23. 5.3Boundary Layer and Flow Separation Studies
  24. 5.4Analysis of Complex Flow Phenomena
  25. 5.5Applications in Research and Development
  26. 6.3Rotor Design Principles
  27. 6.2Blade Element Theory (BEMT)
  28. 6.3Aerodynamic Design of Blade Profiles
  29. 6.4Rotor Performance Analysis and Optimization
  30. 6.5Applications in Helicopters and Wind Turbines
  31. 7.3Propeller Theory and Operation
  32. 7.2Testing Methodology and Performance Evaluation
  33. 7.3Thrust, Power, and Efficiency Measurement
  34. 7.4Data Analysis and Comparison of Results
  35. 7.5Applications in Aviation and Marine Propulsion
  36. 8.3Introduction to Rotor Performance Analysis
  37. 8.2Key Performance Parameters
  38. 8.3Data Analysis and Modeling Techniques
  39. 8.4Rotor Performance Optimization and Design
  40. 8.5Applications and case studies
  1. 4.4Instrumentation and Measurement in the Wind Tunnel
  2. 4.2Design and Fabrication of Test Models
  3. 4.3Flow Visualization Techniques
  4. 4.4Calibration and Validation of Results
  5. 4.5Analysis of Experimental Data
  6. 4.6Specific Applications: Wings, Fuselages, Components
  7. 4.7Aerodynamic Optimization of Components
  8. 4.8Scale Effects and Corrections
  9. 4.9Stability and Control Studies
  10. 4.40Presentation of Results and Conclusions
  1. 5.5Principles of Aerodynamics: Lift, Drag, and Thrust
  2. 5.5Wind Tunnel Components and Their Operation
  3. 5.3Types of Wind Tunnels: Subsonic, Transonic, and Supersonic
  4. 5.4Basic Wind Tunnel Measurements: Pressure, Velocity, and Force
  5. 5.5Importance of the Reynolds Number and Mach Number
  6. 5.5Principles of Aerodynamic Design
  7. 5.5​​Wind Tunnel Testing Methodology
  8. 5.3Flow Visualization Techniques
  9. 5.4Results Analysis and Design Optimization
  10. 5.5​​Validation of CFD Models with Experimental Data
  11. 3.5Fundamentals of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
  12. 3.5Configuration and Use of Simulation Software
  13. 3.3Meshing and Domain Discretization
  14. 3.4Results Analysis: Pressure, Velocity, Vortex Flow
  15. 3.5Validation and Verification of CFD Simulations
  16. 4.5Design of Experiments (DoE)
  17. 4.5Sensors and Data Acquisition in a Wind Tunnel Wind
  18. 4.3Component testing: wings, fuselages, stabilizers
  19. 4.4Experimental data analysis
  20. 4.5Reporting and presentation of results
  21. 5.5Advanced flow visualization techniques: smoke, threads, paint
  22. 5.5Flow studies around airfoils
  23. 5.3Analysis of flow behavior at different angles of attack
  24. 5.4Characterization of lift and wake
  25. 5.5Specific applications: design of ships, aircraft, submarines
  26. 6.5Rotor operating principles
  27. 6.5Rotor blade design: geometry and profiles
  28. 6.3Rotor performance analysis: thrust, power, efficiency
  29. 6.4Rotor applications: propellers, wind turbines
  30. 6.5Design of optimized rotors for different applications
  31. 7.5Propeller design and manufacturing
  32. 7.5Mounting and configuration of propellers in a wind tunnel
  33. 7.3Propeller performance measurements: thrust and torque
  34. 7.4Propeller efficiency analysis
  35. 7.5Influence of Number of blades and their shape affect performance
  36. 8.5Characterization of flow around rotors
  37. 8.5Force and moment measurement techniques
  38. 8.3Analysis of pressure distribution on blades
  39. 8.4Evaluation of rotor performance under different flight conditions
  40. 8.5Optimization of rotor design for performance
  1. 6.6Rotor Design Fundamentals: Aerodynamic Theory and Principles
  2. 6.2Airfoil Selection for Rotors
  3. 6.3Rotor Blade Design: Geometry and Characteristics
  4. 6.4Rotor Performance Analysis: Blade Element Theory
  5. 6.5Optimized Rotor Design: Techniques and Methodologies
  6. 6.6Rotor Modeling and Simulation: CFD and Specialized Software
  7. 6.7Wind Tunnel Testing of Rotors: Configuration and Measurement
  8. 6.8Data Analysis and Validation: Comparison with Simulations
  9. 6.9Rotor Design Applications: Drones, Helicopters, and Wind Turbines
  10. 6.60Case Studies: Design and Analysis of Successful Rotors
  1. 7.7Introduction to Aerodynamics: Fundamental Principles
  2. 7.2Wind Tunnels: History and Types
  3. 7.3Main Components of a Wind Tunnel
  4. 7.4Basic Measurements: Pressure, Speed, Temperature
  5. 7.7Applications of Wind Tunnels in Naval Engineering
  6. 2.7Design of Experiments (DOE) for Aerodynamic Testing
  7. 2.2Modeling and Construction of Scale Models
  8. 2.3Measurement Techniques: Force, Momentum, Surface Pressure
  9. 2.4Data Analysis and Visualization of Results
  10. 2.7Optimization of Aerodynamic Shapes
  11. 3.7Fundamentals of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
  12. 3.2Preprocessing: Creating Meshes and Boundary Conditions
  13. 3.3Solving the Navier-Stokes Equations
  14. 3.4Postprocessing: Analysis and Visualization of Results
  15. 3.7Comparison Between Simulation and Experiment
  16. 4.7Selection of Components for Evaluation
  17. 4.2Design of Component-Specific Experiments
  18. 4.3Measurement Techniques: Drag, Lift, Efficiency
  19. 4.4Analysis of Data and Comparison with Theoretical Models
  20. 4.7Component Performance Evaluation
  21. 7.7Flow Visualization: Techniques and Applications
  22. 7.2Boundary Layer Analysis: Key Concepts
  23. 7.3Effect of Reynolds Number on Flow
  24. 7.4Turbulence Study and Its Impact
  25. 7.7Applications in Ship and Component Design
  26. 6.7Rotor Theory: Basic Principles
  27. 6.2Aerodynamic Blade Design
  28. 6.3Performance Analysis: Lift, Thrust, Torque
  29. 6.4Applications in Marine Propellers and Rotors
  30. 6.7Rotor Design Optimization
  31. 7.7Propeller Operating Principles
  32. 7.2Wind Tunnel Testing for Propellers: Techniques and Measurements
  33. 7.3Propeller Performance Analysis: Efficiency, Thrust, Power
  34. 7.4Propeller Selection and Design for Different Marine Applications
  35. 7.7Cavitation Evaluation in Propellers
  36. 8.7Flow Effects on Rotor Performance
  37. 8.2Wind Tunnel Measurement Techniques
  38. 8.3Analysis of experimental data
  39. 8.4Rotor design optimization
  40. 8.7Comparison with theoretical models and simulation
  1. 8.8Introduction to the Principles of Aerodynamics
  2. 8.8Components and Operation of a Wind Tunnel
  3. 8.3Types of Wind Tunnels and Their Applications
  4. 8.4Basic Measurements and Analysis in Wind Tunnels
  5. 8.5Importance of Aerodynamics in Naval Design
  6. 8.8Aerodynamic Optimization Techniques
  7. 8.8Design of Experiments for Optimization
  8. 8.3Analysis of Results and Conclusions
  9. 8.4Applications in Ship Design
  10. 8.5Impact on Performance and Efficiency
  11. 3.8Fundamentals of Computational Flow Simulation (CFD)
  12. 3.8Setting Up and Running CFD Simulations
  13. 3.3Analysis of Simulation Results
  14. 3.4Comparison Between Simulation and Wind Tunnel Testing
  15. 3.5Validation of Models and Results
  16. 4.8Wind Tunnel Component Testing Techniques
  17. 4.8Force, Pressure, and Flow Measurements
  18. 4.3Analysis of Experimental Data
  19. 4.4Evaluation of Component Performance
  20. 4.5Identification of Areas for Improvement
  21. 5.8Experimental Methods for the Flow Study
  22. 5.8Flow Visualization in Wind Tunnels
  23. 5.3Boundary Layer Analysis and Flow Separation
  24. 5.4Advanced Measurement Techniques
  25. 5.5Interpretation of Results and Conclusions
  26. 6.8Rotor Design Principles for Marine Applications
  27. 6.8Aerodynamic Design of Rotors
  28. 6.3Rotor Performance Analysis
  29. 6.4Rotor Design Optimization
  30. 6.5Specific Applications and Case Studies
  31. 7.8Design Concepts and Propeller Types
  32. 7.8Wind Tunnel Testing of Propellers
  33. 7.3Propeller Performance Measurements
  34. 7.4Data Analysis and Conclusions
  35. 7.5Propeller Design Optimization
  36. 8.8Rotor Applications in Marine Applications
  37. 8.8Rotor Performance Evaluation
  38. 8.3Data Analysis and Design Optimization
  39. 8.4Factors Affecting Rotor Performance
  40. 8.5Design and Operational Considerations
  1. 9.9Fundamental Principles of Aerodynamics
  2. 9.9Introduction to Wind Tunnels: Types and Components
  3. 9.3Airflow: Key Concepts and Parameters
  4. 9.4Wind Tunnel Applications in Naval Engineering
  5. 9.9Aerodynamic Design: Principles and Strategies
  6. 9.9Aerodynamic Optimization: Techniques and Tools
  7. 9.3Wind Tunnel Testing: Methodology and Procedures
  8. 9.4Results Analysis: Interpretation and Applications
  9. 3.9Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Simulation: Introduction
  10. 3.9Fundamentals of Computational Fluid Dynamics
  11. 3.3Software Implementation and Simulation Tools
  12. 3.4Results Validation: Comparison with Experimental Data
  13. 4.9Naval Components: Selection and Preparation for Testing
  14. 4.9Measurement Techniques: Pressure, Force, and Velocity
  15. 4.3Experimental Data Analysis: Procedures and Methods
  16. 4.4Component Evaluation: Performance and Efficiency
  17. 5.9Instrumentation and Sensors in Wind Tunnels
  18. 5.9Flow Visualization: Techniques and Applications
  19. 5.3Wind Tunnel Experimentation: Experimental Design
  20. 5.4Data Analysis: Interpretation and Conclusions
  21. 6.9Rotor Design Principles: Geometry and Aerodynamics
  22. 6.9Rotor Applications in Naval Engineering
  23. 6.3Wind Tunnel Testing: Methodology for Rotors
  24. 6.4Results Analysis: Performance and Optimization
  25. 7.9Propeller Design and Selection: Key Parameters
  26. 7.9Wind Tunnel Propeller Testing: Procedures
  27. 7.3Measurement and Analysis of Propeller Performance
  28. 7.4Comparative Evaluation of Different Designs
  29. 8.9Factors Influencing Rotor Performance
  30. 8.9Analysis Techniques: Characteristic Curves and Coefficients
  31. 8.3Data Analysis: Interpretation and Conclusions
  32. 8.4Performance Optimization: Strategies and Methods
  1. 1. Introduction to Rotary Blade Aerodynamics and Basic Concepts
  2. 2. Aerodynamic Design: Principles and Applications to Rotary Blades
  3. 3. Numerical Simulation of Airflow Around Rotary Blades
  4. 4. Experimental Techniques: Wind Tunnel Testing for Blades
  5. 5. Evaluation of Aerodynamic Performance: Data Analysis
  6. 6. Design of Optimized Blades: Methodologies and Tools
  7. 7. Stability and Control Analysis of Rotary Blades
  8. 8. Applications of Rotary Blades: Helicopters and Drones
  9. 9. Aerodynamic Optimization of Rotary Blades: Noise and Vibration Reduction
  10. 10. Final Project: Aerodynamic Analysis of Rotary Blades
Methodology, software & labs

How you'll learn

  • Hands-on methodology: test-before-you-trust, design reviews, failure analysis, compliance evidence.
  • Software (depending on licenses/partners): MATLAB/Simulink, Python (NumPy/SciPy), OpenVSP, SU2/OpenFOAM, Nastran/Abaqus, AMESim/Modelica, acoustics tools, planning toolchains DO-178C.
  • SEIUM Laboratories: scale rotor bench, vibrations/acoustics, EMC/Lightning pre-compliance, HIL/SIL for AFCS, data acquisition with strain gauging.
  • Standards and compliance: EN 9100, 17025, ISO 27001, GDPR.
Accreditable laboratories(EN ISO/IEC 17025) with rotor bench, EMC/Lightning pre-compliance, HIL/SIL, vibrations/acoustics.
Evidence-oriented Master's Thesis:safety case, test plan, compliance dossier and operational limits.
Industry Mentored:teachers with experience in training, , eVTOL/UAM and flight test.
Flexible modality(hybrid/online), international cohorts and support from SEIUM Career Services.
Ethics and safety:safety-by-design approach, cyber-OT, DIH and compliance as pillars.
Career opportunities

Where this takes you

Wind Tunnel Engineer/Technician (Design, Experimentation, Research)Wind Tunnel Technician (Operation, Maintenance, Data Analysis)**Wind Tunnel Technician** (Operation, Experimentation, Flow Analysis)**Wind Tunnel Technician/Operator** (Experimentation, Analysis, Modeling)**Wind Tunnel Technician** (Operation, Experimentation, Data Analysis)**Wind Tunnel Technician** (Operation, Experimentation, Data Analysis)
Admissions & scholarships

Requirements

  • Profile: Background in Computer Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, or related fields; practical experience in NLP and valued information retrieval systems.
  • Documentation: Updated CV, academic transcript, SOP/statement of purpose, project examples or code (optional).
  • Process: Application → Technical evaluation of profile and experience → Technical interview → Review of case studies → Final decision → Enrollment.
  • Fees:
    • Single payment: 10% discount.
    • Payment in 3 installments: No fees; 30% upon registration + 2 equal monthly payments of the remaining 35%. Monthly payment: available with a 7% commission on the total; annual review. Scholarships: based on academic merit, financial need, and promoting inclusion; agreements with companies in the sector for partial or full scholarships. See "Calendar & Calls for Applications," "Scholarships & Grants," and "Fees & Financing" in the SEIUM mega-menu.

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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Yes, we have international certification

Yes: experimental models, real data, applied simulations, professional environments, real case studies.

It is not mandatory. We offer leveling tracks and tutoring.

Completely. It covers e-propulsion, integration, and emerging regulations (SC-VTOL).

Recommended. There are also internal challenges and consortiums.

Yes. Online/hybrid modality with planned labs and visa support (see “Visa & Residence”).

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