Laboratory activities support conceptual understanding in engineering education, particularly in aerodynamics and computational fluid dynamics (CFD), where many flow phenomena are difficult to interpret using numerical results alone. This paper presents the development, implementation, and educational evaluation of a low-cost smoke flow visualisation system for the TecQuipment AF-100 subsonic wind tunnel. The system enables real-time observation of airflow and was integrated into laboratory and project-based learning within undergraduate aerodynamics teaching. The system was developed through an iterative process involving computer-aided design, CFD-informed refinement, prototyping, and experimental testing, and was applied across a range of educational case studies, including aerofoil testing and Formula Student vehicle aerodynamics. The educational impact was evaluated using an anonymous post-activity student survey comprising Likert-scale and open-ended questions. The results indicate positive student perceptions of improved conceptual understanding, stronger links between theory and experiment, and increased confidence in interpreting aerodynamic phenomena. As these findings are based on self-reported student perceptions, and indicative of the educational benefit of having smoke visualisation accompany quantitative wind tunnel measurements. Hence, smoke flow visualisation can support engagement and experimental learning in undergraduate aerodynamics laboratories.
Beanlands et al. (Thu,) studied this question.