Aeronautical and Automotive Engineering

Staff

Ashley Barker

Photo of  Ashley Barker

Head of Technical Operations

Research Groups

Applied Aerodynamics

Background

First degree in Aeronautical Engineering from º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ (1993). Remained at º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ as part of the Rolls-Royce UTC in Combustion Aerodynamics.

Research Interests and Activities

As part of the Rolls-Royce UTC group, the main focus of research is concerned with the aerodynamics of gas turbine engines. This includes the design and operation of isothermal experimental facilities which can range from the testing of an isolated component to the representation of the combustion system as a whole.

Of current particular interest are two-phase flows and aero-acoustic interactions, in addition to the development of advanced experimental techniques such as dynamic planar film thickness measurement.

Other recent work includes acoustic damping using resonators, compressor outlet guide vane flows and their integrated design with both diffusers and compressor interconnecting (s-shape) ducts.

Experience includes the development of PC based data acquisition and control systems using LabVIEW, including communications with primary and ancillary equipment. Measurement techniques include miniature five-hole pressure probes, CO2 gas tracing, LDA, PDA, two-phase flow imaging including laser induced fluorescence techniques, hot wire anemometry and Kulite fast response pressure transducers.

External Activities

  • Member of the Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre for Combustion Aerodynamics
  • Collaborative research: EU Collaborative research programmes include LOPOCOTEP, MUSCLES (FP4), AIDA (FP5) and FIRST (FP7)
  • Award of several patents since 2002

Publications

View central admin publications database.