A modular Stereo-PIV Probe for Underwater Applications: Configurations and Measurement Performance

A unique, highly modular and flexible underwater system for stereoscopic particle image velocimetry (PIV) measurements has been designed, manufactured and tested. The instrument is intended for planar threedimensional velocity measurements in large facilities such as water tow tanks and tunnels. The performance of the system is assessed in four major stereoscopic configurations. Errors under 2% for the in-plane components and 4% for the out-of-plane components are found. The system is tested in the INSEAN large circulating water channel where the measurement of the flow around a model ship oriented at a moderate yaw angle is performed and puts into evidence the main features of the flow