Hydraulic laboratory with high-performance measuring circuits

The Laboratory of the Department of Hydrodynamic Systems is located separately from the department offices, in Building L of Budapest University of Technology and Economics. The laboratory covers an area of nearly 1000 m2 and is divided into three main halls. Halls I and III are equipped with measuring systems used for practical training of BSc and MSc students, as well as for carrying out a significant part of the department’s research. Hall II contains our mechanical workshop and also serves as the home of the BME Solar Boat Team, a student competition team.

General properties

Our laboratory is equipped with several water pipeline systems of various sizes, as well as open-surface water channels and tanks, offering a wide range of measurement and testing possibilities. In addition, hydraulic and pneumatic test benches allow for the examination of components, devices, and machines operating in oil and air media.

Large lab space

Nearly 1000 m2 of floor space and a significant interior height of 6-10 m enable the construction of large-scale measuring equipment.

High-performance electrical network

Thanks to the 630-amp power supply, electrical equipment with a capacity of up to 200 kW can be operated.

Closed water circuits

Measurement options:

  • measurement of flow parameters (loss factor, Kv ) of fittings and fittings,

  • calibration of flow meters,

  • measurement of pump characteristic curve (H – Q) and suction capacity (NPSH r – Q),

  • investigation of cavitation phenomena around bodies,

  • generation and analysis of hydraulic transients

Large water circle

Main parameters:

  • diameter: DN 20 – DN 250

  • maximum volume flow: 600 m3 /h

  • maximum operating pressure: 16 bar

Cavitation channel

Main parameters:

  • measuring chamber cross-section: 50×200 mm

  • maximum flow speed: 10 m/s

Smaller water circuits

Main parameters:

  • diameter: DN 20 – DN 100
  • maximum flow rate: 100 m3 /h

  • maximum operating pressure: 6 – 16 bar

Open water circuits

Measurement options:

  • investigation of flow around small and large bodies,

  • analysis of irrigation channels, wastewater conduits, and stormwater drainage systems

  • investigation of open surface flow around larger bodies,

  • movement of bodies and ship models in still water

  • testing of small and large submersible pumps.

Circulating gravity water channel

Main parameters:

  • measuring chamber cross-section: 150 x 250 mm

  • measuring space length: 5 m
  • maximum flow speed: 1.4 m/s
  • slope angle: 0 – 2.5 degrees

Non-circulating water channels and basins

  • 20-27 m long open surface water channels with varying cross-section

  • 3-5 m diameter and 5-7 m depth wells

Measurement benches

Measurement options:

  • simpler hydraulic measurements,

  • testing of pressure relief valves, gear pumps,

  • analysis of simpler pneumatic problems,

  • testing pneumatic valves and switches,

  • a new measurement system can be easily installed either on the water network or directly on the air tank.

Hydraulic test benches

Main parameters:

  • maximum pressure: 150 bar,

  • maximum flow rate: 20 liters/min (can be changed if required).

Pneumatic air system and measuring bench

A pneumatic air system is available throughout the entire lab, and a test bench in a separate part of our lab allows for simple testing of pneumatic valves and switches.

Main parameters:

  • air volume: 1000 l/min,

  • maximum air pressure: 10 bar,

  • tank volume: 2×900 liters,

  • maximum connecting pipe size: 2 inches.

Measurement technology

During measurements, we use both simple analog instruments and modern digital devices. With our custom-built measurement systems — consisting of sensors, data acquisition units, and measurement software — we can perform time-dependent pressure and flow rate measurements, including on external sites when needed. For measuring flow velocity, turbulence parameters, and visualizing flow structures, we also use advanced laser Doppler (LDV) and hot-wire (CTA) flow measurement systems.

Workshop for production and product development

An essential part of our laboratory’s work is the regular maintenance of measurement equipment, as well as the design and construction of new measuring systems, either for internal use or in collaboration with industry partners. This activity also includes in-house manufacturing, supported by two conventional lathes, a multi-axis milling machine, drilling and grinding machines, and two 3D printers.

The laboratory employs two full-time technicians to support manufacturing and assembly work, including electrical tasks. Assembly processes are aided by 2-ton and 5-ton overhead cranes, which allow us to safely handle and move heavy machinery. Thanks to the large laboratory space, we are also able to manufacture large-scale support structures as part of our production activities.

Contact

Laboratory manager

András Gulyás

agulyas@hds.bme.hu

Lab

1111, Budapest, Bertalan Lajos Street 7.

info@hds.bme.hu​

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