Engine Measurement Systems Department

Laser optical measurement method
We bridge the gap between traditional component testing and advanced simulation capabilities.

We develop and operate high-resolution laser-optic measurement techniques for the analysis of aerothermodynamic processes in engine and power plant components and for the validation of computational methods. The development aims include optimising the accuracy of individual measurement methods as well as adopting and integrating new metrological approaches. Measurements are carried out both at the Institute's test facilities and under external contracts with industrial and academic partners. A particular challenge is always to adapt our measurement techniques to the different test bed environments in which they are used on turbomachinery components under real operating conditions.

The engine measurement department has many years of experience in the design of laser-optic measurement equipment. This includes the design and manufacture of probes for high-pressure and high-temperature applications, fibre-optic assembly and prototyping. For interdisciplinary technology transfer, the engine measurement department actively uses interfaces with the measurement and automotive industries, for example, and is involved in wind tunnel applications and the development of high-power LED technology.

With our laser-optical measurement methods, we contribute to a better understanding of the aerothermodynamic operating behaviour of engine and power plant components and provide extensive databases with the measurement results, which are used to validate numerical models and simulation tools. Our aim is to bridge the gap between conventional component testing and the predictive capabilities of modern simulation environments.

Our core areas of expertise

Experimental development and application of optical measurement methods to achieve the highest possible accuracy for the further development of engines and engine components, as well as for the validation of computational methods.

Component measurements on the institute's own test facilities (compressor, combustion chamber, turbine)

Construction
Probe design and production, design of laser-optical measuring equipment, prototype construction, patents

Technology transfer for example to the measurement and automotive industry, wind tunnel applications, high-performance LED technology

Industrial use for Rolls-Royce, MTU Aero Engines, Alstom Power, Siemens Energy, Lufthansa Technik and others

Some projects we are working on

Loading

Contact

Dr.-Ing. Christian Willert

Head of Department
German Aerospace Center (DLR)
Institute of Propulsion Technology
Engine Measurement Systems
Linder Höhe, 51147 Köln