The Centre for Experimental Fluid Mechanics brings together a unique collection of researchers, technical specialists and experimental facilities to advance understanding of fluid flow in both fundamental and applied settings. By combining expertise across multiple laboratories, the Centre provides a coordinated environment for world-leading research, industrial collaboration and student training.
Our facilities include multiple wind tunnels, water tunnels and specialist experimental laboratories, providing the flexibility to investigate flows across a wide range of scales and applications.
The Centre offers a comprehensive suite of experimental diagnostics, from force and pressure measurements to advanced optical techniques that capture detailed two- and three-dimensional flow fields. These capabilities enable researchers to study complex physical phenomena with high accuracy and resolution.
The Centre supports research across diverse areas including aerodynamics, environmental flows, urban wind engineering, renewable energy, transport, and other engineering applications where fluid mechanics plays a critical role. Experimental work is closely integrated with computational modelling, allowing researchers to combine physical measurements with advanced numerical simulations to deliver deeper scientific understanding and practical engineering solutions.
Alongside supporting internationally recognised research, the Centre provides experimental facilities for undergraduate and postgraduate education and works closely with industrial partners to address real-world engineering challenges. By bringing together people, facilities and expertise under a single centre, we aim to strengthen collaboration, increase the impact of our research, and provide a focal point for experimental fluid mechanics at the University of Southampton.
