Radial Traverse

Radial (linear) traverses can be used to move probes to any radial position across the flow annulus. These can also have the option to rotate a probe in yaw direction in order that its sensor is aligned with the flow swirl direction. A radial traverse can be manufactured such that its size, stroke, and length are optimized for the customer’s requirements, which can be particularly useful if there is limited space around the test vehicle. Although the design and manufacture of radial traverses is specialized work, the engineering concepts involved are relatively straightforward and easily understood. This is because, by using an appropriate seal around the circular probe stem, it is possible to isolate the traverse itself from the influence of the flow that is being measured (which is particularly convenient when measuring high pressure and/or high temperature flows). It is also possible to design a traverse that is independent of the test vehicle geometry.