Force and Moment Measurement Systems

The Air Force Test Center is seeking sources to design, procure, and integrate systems and infrastructure to conduct Force and Moment (F&M) measurements in a wind tunnel at Arnold Air Force Base, Tennessee. The requirement includes the procurement of an externally mounted balance for measuring fin loads, a model positioning system, and other related equipment. The balance must be able to measure at least three components of aerodynamic forces and moments, and it must be designed to operate under vacuum conditions. The model positioning system must be able to rotate the torque tube to set angles of attack within the wind tunnel test section. The contract is expected to involve the design, procurement, and integration of these systems and infrastructure. Some key points to consider include: • The balance must be able to measure at least three components of aerodynamic forces and moments. • The balance must be designed to operate under vacuum conditions. • The model positioning system must be able to rotate the torque tube to set angles of attack within the wind tunnel test section. • The system must be able to operate at high Mach numbers and withstand high loads. • The system must be designed to minimize sealing constraints and operate at vacuum conditions.