The Flow Cell is designed to simulate the fully developed turbulent boundary layer developing over the hull of high-speed ships.

Constructed in 2005 as part of the AMBIO project, the Flow Cell investigates the use of nanotechnology in biofouling resistant coatings. A recent upgrade to the measuring section allows for usage of a range of test plates.

Instrumentation and equipment upgrades have kept the facility at the leading edge of research activity.

Microscope slides are covered with the trial coating and then different types of organisms are settled on them. The slides are introduced into the boundary layer and the wall shear stress is measured.

The Flow Cell also measures the adhesion strength of cyprid barnacles in a saltwater flow environment by simulating the boundary layers developing on a 140m vessel travelling at speeds up to 40 knots.

Specification

• Maximum water velocity: 13.4 m/s
• Maximum wall shear stress: 256 Pa
• Measurement section: 1500 x 292 x 20 mm
• Pump power rating: 15 kW
• Pump capacity: 90 litres/s at 10m head
• Operating temperature range: 28 °C to 3 °C
• Medium: fresh and salt water