PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS

INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 4: Measurement of Airspeeds

LEARNING MODULE 04:

Measurement of
Airspeeds

AE 311 – AERODYNAMICS I

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 4: Measurement of Airspeeds

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Title Ref. no Page
Pitot-Static Tube 1 5
Incompressible Flows 1 6
Compressible Flows 1 7
Supersonic Flows 1 8
Sample Problems 10
Assessment Activity 10
Plate No. 1 11

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 4: Measurement of Airspeeds

TABLE OF REFERENCES
References No.
Anderson, Jr., J. D. (1989). Introduction to Flight (3rd Edition) [E-book].
1
McGraw-Hill Book Company
Jones, B. (1939). Elements of Practical Aerodynamics (2nd Edition) [E-
2
book]. John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Clancy, L. J. (1975). Aerodynamics [E-book]. Pitman Publishing Limited. 3
Anderson, Jr., J. D. (2011). Fundamentals of Aerodynamics (5th Edition)
4
[E-book]. McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

Figures and Tables No.

Figures 4.1 – 4.4 are taken from the reference above. 1
Tables presented are step by step solutions for derivation of working
equations. It was only tabulated for organization purposes.

TIME COMMITMENT FOR THIS MODULE

Reading Materials Time (min)
Pitot-Static Tube 25
Incompressible Flows 45
Compressible Flows 45
Supersonic Flows 29.4

Activities Time (min)

Sample Problems 30
Assessment Activity 70
Plate No. 1 70
TOTAL 314.4 min (5.24 hrs)

HONESTY CLAUSE
As members of the academic community, students are expected to recognize and
uphold standards of intellectual and academic integrity. The institution assumes as a
basic and minimum standard of conduct in academic matters that students be honest
at all times and that they submit for credit only the products of their own efforts.

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 PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 4: Measurement of Airspeeds

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Program Learning Outcomes (PLO)

Course Learning Outcomes (CLO)
PLO 1. Apply knowledge of Module Learning Outcomes (MLO)
mathematics, physical sciences, CLO 2: Produce accurate
engineering sciences to the
Topic Learning
solution for a certain logical Outcomes (TLO)
practice of aeronautical problem at utmost ease through MLO 1: Describe the operating
engineering. the application of correct formulae. principle of a Pitot-Static tube by TLO 1: Explain the
PLO 4. Function in multi- CLO 3: Develop engineering definition of terms involving pitot operating principle of a
disciplinary and multi-cultural skills such as critical thinking, and tube. pitot-static tube using
teams self-learning through discussion MLO 2: Define terms involved in illustrations and definition of
PLO 5.Identify, formulate, and and problem solving. solving airspeed measurements terms involved in the pitot
solve aeronautical engineering through lectures and readings. tube nomenclature.
CLO 4: Evaluate problems TLO 2: Introduce terms
problems. involving flow properties in a flow MLO 3: Derive formulas for
PLO 6. Understand the airspeed involving subsonic used in problems involving
using derived working equations. airspeed measurements
professional and ethical CLO 8: Acknowledge the (compressible and incompressible
using formulas and
responsibility relevance of aerodynamic theories flows) using formulas for basic definitions.
PLO 8.Understand the impact of to different problems through aerodynamic principles. TLO 3: Derive working
aeronautical engineering solutions demonstration of its application in MLO 4: Discuss the difference equations useful for
in global, economic, aerodynamic problems. between true airspeed and airspeed measurements
environmental, and societal CLO 9: Commit to the scientific equivalent airspeed through involved in subsonic
context variables present in the formulas. incompressible and
process of solving problems in compressible flows using
PLO 9.Recognize the need for, aerodynamics by producing MLO 5: Apply formulas for
and engage in life-long learning measurement of airspeeds fundamental aerodynamic
solutions following the basic steps formulas.
PLO 11.Use techniques, skills, through problem solving activities
of scientific method. TLO 4: Differentiate
and modern engineering tools MLO 6: Determine flow between true airspeed and
necessary for aeronautical properties of air in a pitot-static equivalent airspeed through
engineering practice tube in a supersonic airflow using the derived working
PLO 12.Knowledge and formulas for supersonic flows. equations along with
understanding of engineering and aerodynamic
management principles as a considerations.
member and leader in a team, to TLO 5: Solve problems
manage projects and in involving airspeed
measurements through the
multidisciplinary environments.
presentation of sample
PLO 13.Apply acquired problems, problem sets
aeronautical engineering and/or module activities.
knowledge and skills for national TLO 6: Solve properties
development. of air for a pitot-static tube
in a supersonic flow
through the presentation of
sample problems, problem
sets and/or module
activities.

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 4: Measurement of Airspeeds

CONTENT
I. Pitot-Static Tube
Measuring velocity for wind tunnels specifically those for incompressible flows are
derived in the previous chapters. However, an underlying assumption of quasi-one
dimensional flow was made, i.e. the flow properties are reasonably constant over any
given cross section of the flow in the tunnel. As an example, if the flow velocity in the
middle of test section is higher than near the walls, then the value of V2 is only the mean
value of the test section velocity. For this reason, having a point measurement is
important at a given spatial location in the flow. This can be done by a pitot static tube.

Definition of Terms:
1. Static – example static pressure, something that you would feel if you were moving
along with the flow at that point. As an example, an airplane moves in the air, far
ahead the plane the pressure let us say is 11 psi, this is the static pressure or
ambient pressure.
2. Total – on a point property that is brought to rest isentropically. In conjunction with
the example above, the surroundings of the airplane have a pressure of 11 psi but
on the surface or any point in the airplane itself, hence, the total pressure on a point
on the airplane is not equal to 11 psi. The value may vary on to which point of the
airplane we are taking into consideration.

For a measurement reading of velocity, the pitot-static tube uses pitot tube and static
port and a differential gauge. The pitot tube is oriented with its orifice perpendicular to
the flow of the streamline. This tube catches the air in its orifice and at slows it down
isentropically to zero. The pressure measured from the pitot tube is called the total
pressure or stagnation pressure. Meanwhile, the static port is oriented in line with the
flow. This ensures that the pressure sensed by the static port is the natural ramification
of molecules present in the air called the static pressure or ambient pressure. The
difference between the total pressure and the static pressure is used to produce a
reading from the differential gauge. For aircrafts, pitot-static tubes are used for airspeed
measurement.

Figure 4.1 Working Principle of Pitot-Static Tube

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 4: Measurement of Airspeeds

The airspeed can be obtained depending on the type of flow.

II. Incompressible Flows

The underlying assumption of incompressible flow is that the density is constant along
different points of the flow. In line with this, the working equation we can use for
incompressible flow is the Bernoulli’s equation.

Figure 4.2 Pitot-Static Tube

STEPS EQUATIONS

Let Point 1 be the static port

Bernoulli’s Equation Let Point 0 be the pitot tube and since the
air is slowed down isentropically to zero at
this point then

Simplifying Where P1 = Static Pressure ; P0 = Total

Pressure

Solving for V1

True Airspeed

Equivalent Airspeed

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 4: Measurement of Airspeeds

Note that this velocity holds true for

incompressible flows only where density is
assumed constant

Since we derived the formula for velocity we shall now discuss two different types of
airspeed commonly encountered in aviation. For the sake of discussion of
incompressible flows, let us assume that the velocity of an aircraft is less than 100 m/s.
The differential gauge showed before is calibrated to show airspeeds in mph. Using the
pitot-static tube to measure this airspeed, we need the reading of pressure from the
pitot tube and the static port but from the equation above of velocity we need the
density. The density at an altitude is difficult to measure while the aircraft is in flight, so
for practical purposes this density is assumed to be standard sea level density to give us
an EQUIVALENT AIRSPEED reading. Meanwhile, if we know the actual density where the
aircraft is flying which is commonly the case for aircrafts tested in wind tunnels, we can
measure the TRUE AIRSPEED of the aircraft.

III. Compressible Flows

Taking account for compressibility of air at speeds greater than 0.3 < M < 1.
STEPS EQUATIONS

From Thermodynamics

Where Point 1 is in the free stream flow

For compressible flows, we use energy
Where Point 0 is where the velocity is
equation
isentropically slowed down to zero, then

Simplifying

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 4: Measurement of Airspeeds

Since it is assumed that compressible

flows are isentropic flows then from the
isentropic relations we have:

Note that the relations shows the

importance of Mach number for
compressible flow calculations.

For measuring true airspeed

Arranging algebraically:

Since the measurement of the ambient

temperature around the airplane (T1) and
that a1 varies directly to T1 and the fact Assuming that a1 and Ps is equal to that of
that the instrument is used to measure standard sea level conditions (SSLC)
the pressure difference P0 – P1 instead of
the pressure ration P0 / P1

IV. Supersonic Flows

Airspeed measurements in supersonic flow where M > 1 are qualitatively different from
those for subsonic flow. Since a shock wave is present ahead of a pitot tube as the air
passes in this shockwave severe changes in flow properties take place.
1. Flow property change across a shockwave
2. Mach Number Decreases
3. Static Pressure Increases
4. Static Temperature Increases
5. Flow Velocity Decreases
6. Total Pressure Decreases
7. Total Temperature stays the same

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 4: Measurement of Airspeeds

Figure 4.3 Pitot Tube in

a Supersonic Flow

Figure 4.4 Flow Properties in a Shockwave

Since the computation of airspeed for supersonic flows are complicated by the presence
of shockwave because the shockwave is a non-isentropic process, the total pressure
behind the shock is not of equal value to the total pressure ahead of the shock. This will
indicate a different stagnation pressure reading in the pitot tube but for all practical
purposes Rayleigh’s Pitot Tube Formula is used to relate the values of the stagnation
pressure behind the wave to the static pressure on the airplane surface and the free
stream Mach Number.

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 4: Measurement of Airspeeds

V. Sample Problems
1. The altimeter on a low speed Cessna 150 private aircraft reads 5000 ft. By an
independent measurement, the outside air temperature is 505 ⁰R. If a pitot tube
mounted on the wing tip measures a pressure of 1818 psf, what is the true velocity
of the airplane? What is the equivalent airspeed?
2. A high speed subsonic McDonnel Douglas DC-10 airliner is flying at a pressure
altitude of 10 km. A pitot tube on the wing tip measures a pressure of 4.24 x 104 Pa.
Calculate the Mach number at which the airplane is flying. If the ambient air
temperature is 230 K, calculate the true airspeed and the calibrated airspeed.
3. An experimental rocket powered aircraft is flying with a velocity of 3000 mph at an
altitude where the ambient pressure and temperature are 151 psf and 390 ⁰R,
respectively. A pitot tube is mounted in the nose of the aircraft. What is the pressure
measured by the Pitot tube?

VI. Assessment Activity

Instruction: Solve the following problems. Compile all accomplished activities on a single
pdf file only which can be either scanned or type written. Outputs should be submitted
on Google Classroom on the dates designated by the instructor.

1. A supersonic transport is flying at a velocity of 1500 mi/hr at a standard altitude of

50,000 ft. The temperature at a point in the flow over the wing is 793.32 ⁰R.
Calculate the flow velocity at that point.
2. A high speed missile is traveling at Mach 3 at standard sea level conditions. What is
its velocity in mph?
3. A high speed subsonic Boeing 707 airliner is flying at a pressure altitude of 12 km. A
pitot tube on the vertical tail measure a pressure of 2.96 x 104 Pa. At what Mach
number is the airplane flying?
4. The altimeter on a low speed Cessna 150 private aircraft reads 8000 ft. By an
independent measurement, the outside air temperature is 400 ⁰R. If a pitot tube
mounted on the wing tip measures a pressure of 12.625 psi, what is the true velocity
of the airplane? What is the equivalent airspeed?
5. A high speed subsonic Airbus A320 airliner is flying at a pressure altitude of 8 km. A
pitot tube on the nose measures a pressure of 14.765 in Hg. Calculate the Mach
number at which the airplane is flying. If the ambient air temperature is 300 K,
calculate the true airspeed and the calibrated airspeed.

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 4: Measurement of Airspeeds

VII. Plate No. 1

Instruction: Solve the following problems. Compile all accomplished activities on a single
pdf file only which can be either scanned or type written. Outputs should be submitted
on Google Classroom on the dates designated by the instructor.

1. A pitot tube is mounted in the test section of a low speed subsonic wind tunnel. The
flow in the test section has a velocity, static pressure, and temperature of 150 mi/h,
1 atm, and 70⁰ F, respectively. Calculate the pressure measured by the pitot tube.
2. The altimeter on a low speed Piper Aztec reads 8000 ft. A pitot tube mounted on the
wing tip measures a pressure of 1650 psf. If the outside air temperature is 500⁰ R,
what is the true velocity of the airplane? What is the equivalent airspeed?
3. The altimeter on a low speed airplane reads 2 km. The airspeed indicator reads 50
m/s. If the outside air temperature is 280 K, what is the true velocity of the airplane?
4. A pitot tube is mounted in the test section of a high speed subsonic wind tunnel. The
pressure and temperature of the airflow are 1 atm and 270 K, respectively. If the
flow velocity is 250 m/s, what is the pressure measured by the pitot tube?
5. Consider the flow of air through a supersonic nozzle. The reservoir pressure and
temperature are 5 atm and 500 K, respectively. If the Mach number at the nozzle
exit is 3, calculate the exit pressure, temperature and density.

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 4: Measurement of Airspeeds

ANSWER KEY:

1. The altimeter on a low speed Cessna 150 private aircraft reads 5000 ft. By an independent
measurement, the outside air temperature is 505 ⁰R. If a pitot tube mounted on the wing tip
measures a pressure of 1818 psf, what is the true velocity of the airplane? What is the
equivalent airspeed?
Solution:
Since a direct reading from the altimeter gives us the pressure altitude, from standard
atmosphere we have:

The total pressure measured by the pitot tube is where the subscript
O denotes stagnation.

The density at that altitude is given by the equation of state at that point, where:

For True Airspeed of a low speed Cessna:

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 4: Measurement of Airspeeds

For equivalent airspeed, we have sea level density as reference:

2. A high speed subsonic McDonnel Douglas DC-10 airliner is flying at a pressure altitude of 10
km. A pitot tube on the wing tip measures a pressure of 4.24 x 104 Pa. Calculate the Mach
number at which the airplane is flying. If the ambient air temperature is 230 K, calculate the
true airspeed and the calibrated airspeed.
Solution:
From the ISA, we have:

Since the flow is compressible, then from the isentropic relations:

From the ambient temperature, we can calculate the speed of sound:

For true airspeed at compressible flow:

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 4: Measurement of Airspeeds

From the definition of Mach number:

For calibrated airspeed,

3. An experimental rocket powered aircraft is flying with a velocity of 3000 mph at an altitude
where the ambient pressure and temperature are 151 psf and 390 ⁰R, respectively. A pitot
tube is mounted in the nose of the aircraft. What is the pressure measured by the Pitot
tube?
Solution:
Is the flow subsonic or supersonic?

For pressure measured by the pitot tube:

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