A New Lease on Life: ABB's Revitalization of NASA's Wind Tunnel

A Legacy of Innovation

NASA's National Transonic Facility (NTF) has been a cornerstone of aerospace research for decades. This state-of-the-art wind tunnel has played a pivotal role in the development of iconic aircraft like the Boeing 777 and the Space Shuttle. However, as technology advances and equipment ages, even such groundbreaking facilities require modernization to maintain their operational excellence.

A Partnership for the Future

Recognizing the need to extend the life of the NTF's critical equipment, NASA turned to ABB, a global leader in industrial automation and motion control. ABB's expertise in drive technology and service solutions was the perfect match for this challenging task.

Modernizing a Legacy

ABB's engineers meticulously assessed the existing 101-megawatt variable speed drive, identifying key components that required upgrading. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and innovative engineering techniques, ABB was able to modernize the drive without compromising its original performance. This strategic approach not only extended the life of the drive but also enhanced its efficiency and reliability.

The Benefits of Modernization

The modernization of the NTF's drive offers numerous benefits:

Extended Lifespan

By replacing aging components with state-of-the-art technology, ABB has significantly extended the life of the drive, saving NASA valuable time and resources.

Improved Performance

The upgraded drive delivers enhanced performance, enabling more precise control and higher efficiency.

Reduced Downtime

By proactively addressing potential issues and optimizing maintenance schedules, ABB's solution minimizes downtime and maximizes the availability of the NTF.

Environmental Sustainability

The modernization project aligns with sustainability goals by reducing energy consumption and minimizing waste.

A Testament to Innovation and Partnership

The successful modernization of the NTF's drive is a testament to the power of collaboration between industry leaders and cutting-edge technology. By working closely with NASA, ABB has not only extended the life of a critical piece of infrastructure but also contributed to the advancement of aerospace research and development.