In early 2024, the Kyiv Fan Factory received a call that marked the beginning of one of the company's most ambitious and interesting projects. The customer was looking for a wind tunnel with a diameter of 2.5 metres and, after consulting with leading global manufacturers, found out that only nine companies in the world were capable of implementing such a project. Among them was the Ukrainian manufacturer of industrial fans, KVZ.
We confirmed that yes, we could do it. And it was this conversation that started the journey to creating the wind tunnel, which our entire team is now proud of.
From idea to unique implementation
After the conditional ‘yes’, the most difficult stage began — the work of the entire team on the development of unique equipment. We studied the situation on the Ukrainian market in detail, where at that time there were only two wind tunnels — in Kyiv and Dnipro. We were faced with a fundamental question: double-circuit or single-circuit design? The first option is cheaper, the second is more efficient and affects the cost of the flight.
Based on the experience of global companies, we chose an example that became our benchmark — NASA's wind tunnel at the Langley Research Centre. It was this practice that inspired us to create our own solution: a single-circuit wind tunnel that combines maximum efficiency with an affordable price.
Why didn't we use a ready-made model?
The answer is simple:• we specialise in non-standard solutions;
• we always seek the optimal combination of customer desires and operational efficiency;
• we look at the product through the eyes of the customer, but we know it from the inside better than anyone else.
What determines flight quality
Two key parameters are important for businesses in this field:
• the efficiency of the wind tunnel, which directly affects the cost of a single flight;
• the laminarity of the air flow, which provides the most realistic feeling of free fall.
These factors were decisive in choosing the design. And the result exceeded expectations: a few months ago, the owner of KVZ heard from a skydiver who was training in our wind tunnel:
‘We have flown in many tunnels around the world, but this one is one of the best. Very nice laminar flow!’
These words were the best confirmation that we had chosen the right path.
A project that gives wings
The designers at the Kyiv Fan Factory have come full circle — from the idea to the finished equipment, which opens up new opportunities for sports and entertainment. Our wind tunnel gives people a unique experience: the feeling of flight, the power of the wind, and a real thrill.
The Aerotube project has proven that the Kyiv Fan Factory is not just a manufacturer of industrial fans, but a team capable of implementing innovative, world-class engineering solutions.
We have proven that Ukrainian intellect, technology and professionalism can create unique products that are recognised by experts from all over the world.
The "air tube" is not only a technical achievement, but also a symbol of the courage, competence and inspiration with which KVZ moves forward every day.
Write a comment