Fluid Systems Engineering Facility
Parent Body: Defence Evaluation and Research Agency (DERA), Haslar, Gosport, Hampshire, PO12 2AG

Principal Functions
Independent trials evaluation and development programmes of equipments and systems. Feasibility studies and in-service investigations.

General Details
The Fluid Systems Engineering Facility provides a comprehensively equipped testing environment in which a wide variety of trials, evaluations and development projects may be undertaken. The open plan 1,490m² test hall is complemented by three 40m² test cells and a noise and vibration quiet room. A mezzanine floor is available to test pump sections at heights of up to 7m. Adjacent to the main hall are separate test facilities for fuels, oils and hydraulic equipment. This flexibility allows long–term endurance trials, development programmes, short-term assessments and in-service investigations to be undertaken concurrently.

Specification
The test house is supplied with 440V/115V at 60Hz and 415V/240V at 50Hz. HP air is available, supplying up to 270 bar at a maximum discharge rate of 448m³/hr, this system has a bottle capacity of 4.1m³. LP air is available at up to 6.8 bar. The test house contains a seawater ring main which delivers up to 1,200 litres/min at 4.8 bar. A chiller can provide up to 81 litres/min of chilled water. The test house is served by an overhead crane capable of lifting 20 tonnes at heights of 10m. The test cells have removable roof panels to allow access.

Special Features
Impartial, experienced staff can supply technical and project management skills to reduce design and programme risk. Measurement and analysis of structure, fluid and airborne noise can be undertaken, both on or off site. Specialist support is available for metrology, comprehensive laboratory analysis, customised instrumentation and high speed data acquisition packages.

Future Plans
A continuous programme of improvement is a core feature of the facilities total quality approach.

Availability
The facility is available to other bodies in both the private and public sector. There are no restrictions on the type of body that can apply to use the facility. Three months advance notice is necessary when requesting time on the facility. Time is allocated as requested.

Charging Basis
Charging rates are subject to negotiation.

Site Access
The site has ready access for vehicles and local accommodation is available for the hirer’s staff.

Contact Information
Ian Grant, Commercial Manager
Centre for Marine Technology
Building 58, Room 114A
DERA Haslar
Haslar Road
Gosport
Hants, PO12 2AG
Telephone: 023 9233 5130      Fax: 023 9233 5012
E-mail:  idgrant@dera.gov.uk