Research Labs

Fluid mechanics research at the University of Hertfordshire focuses on applied engineering solutions, specialising in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), multi-phase flow, and thermal management. Based in the Centre for Engineering Research (CER), researchers work on topics including fuel cells, aeroelasticity, and renewable energy, often utilising experimental and numerical methods.

Key research areas include:

• Thermal Management and Energy: Investigation into heat exchanger performance, heat pumps, phase change materials (PCMs), and nanofluids.
• CFD and Flow Analysis: Applied CFD for optimising flywheels, wind turbines, and PEM fuel cells.
• Aeroelasticity and Fluid-Structure Interaction: Research on nonlinear dynamics, aircraft performance, and fluid-structure interactions.
• Experimental Fluid Mechanics: Development of advanced test rigs using optical diagnostics, imaging techniques, and bioaerosol detection.

Thermal Energy Research  focuses on developing energy-efficient and sustainable manufacturing processes while advancing research in key areas such as Condition Monitoring, Tribology, Energy Harvesting, and Thermal Energy. The team works on innovative solutions to optimise manufacturing operations, reduce environmental impact, and enhance material performance. Research in Condition Monitoring aims to improve the reliability and longevity of mechanical systems, while Tribology studies friction and wear to optimise material efficiency. The Energy Harvesting research explores methods to capture and reuse energy, and the Thermal Energy research focuses on optimising heat management in industrial systems. The laboratory's work provides valuable insights for the development of more sustainable and efficient manufacturing practices

Equipment available in the laboratory:

• Thermal conductivity measurement system.
• Density meter and viscosity meter for physical property analysis.
• Closed-loop water channel for heat transfer and cooling performance testing of electronic components.
• Linear and radial heat conduction apparatus for fundamental and applied research in thermal management

The Energy Harvesting Research Laboratory supports research into materials and processes for energy conversion and storage. It enables thermal and chemical processing, thin-film fabrication, and material characterization for advanced energy applications.

Capabilities and Equipment:

• STA Setline Thermal Analyser for simultaneous thermal analysis.
• Vacuum oven and fume hood for controlled thermal and chemical processing.
• Elcometer 4340 Automatic Film Applicator for thin-film and coating preparation.
• Reflux equipment and hot plates for materials synthesis and thermal treatment.

Our advanced fabrication laboratories support teaching and research in Materials and Structures (MAST), enabling the full engineering process from design to testing.

Key Facilities

• CNC & Robotic Fabrication: 5-axis CNC machines and robotic systems for precision aerospace and automotive prototyping.
• Advanced 3D Printing: Access to specialist additive manufacturing technologies.
• Additive manufacturing, water-jet and laser cutting, and advanced joining techniques including self-piercing riveting.