Schlieren Apparatus (Product Code: SLE/EA/02) is an optical flow-visualisation system used to make density gradients in air visible, so that students can see supersonic flow patterns, shockwaves and expansions around models in aerodynamics and gas dynamics laboratories. It displays density changes as variations in illumination intensity and includes digital imaging equipment to record what students see. It is made by Jain Scientific Equipments Pvt Ltd (ScienceLab), an OEM manufacturer, at its own factory in Ambala, India.
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Principle | Density gradients shown as variations in intensity of illumination |
| Flow features shown | Supersonic air-flow patterns around models; shockwaves and expansions |
| Optics | Mirrors and lenses of high optical standard to reduce the possibility of image distortion |
| Image recording | Digital imaging equipment included |
| Typical pairing | Useful with an intermittent supersonic wind tunnel |
| Learning outcome | Students compare shock and expansion positions and angles with values predicted by theory |
| Product code | SLE/EA/02 |
| Manufacturer | Jain Scientific Equipments Pvt Ltd (ScienceLab) — OEM |
| Country of origin | India (made in Ambala, Haryana) |
Air is invisible, but where its density changes, light passing through it is bent very slightly. A schlieren system turns that bending into brighter and darker regions on the image, so a shockwave in front of a model appears as a sharp line and an expansion fan appears as a graded band. This lets students see the structure of supersonic flow instead of only inferring it from pressure readings.
Intermittent supersonic tunnels run for short bursts, which is why the included digital imaging equipment matters: each run can be captured and studied afterwards. Students measure shock angles from the saved images and check them against oblique-shock theory for the model and Mach number used. Keep the mirrors and lenses clean and covered when not in use, and align the optics before every session.
ScienceLab is the trading name of Jain Scientific Equipments Private Limited, the OEM that produces the Schlieren Apparatus at its own licensed factory at Saha, Ambala, Haryana, India. The apparatus is made and assembled there rather than sourced from a trading house.
Universities, aerospace and mechanical engineering departments, dealers and importers receive quotations and technical support directly from the manufacturer, and can ask us about replacement optics or parts later. Visit the ScienceLab profile to learn more.
Compressible and visual flow studies often use these units alongside the schlieren system:
See the complete Aerodynamics Lab Equipment range.
What does the Schlieren Apparatus show?
The Schlieren Apparatus shows density gradients in air as variations in illumination intensity. Students can see supersonic flow patterns around models, including shockwaves and expansions, and compare their positions and angles with theoretical predictions.
Does the Schlieren Apparatus include a camera?
Yes. The Schlieren Apparatus includes digital imaging equipment to record the images. This is especially useful with an intermittent supersonic wind tunnel, where each run is short and the flow pattern needs to be captured for later study.
Which wind tunnel is the Schlieren Apparatus used with?
The Schlieren Apparatus is described as useful with an intermittent supersonic wind tunnel. Tell us which tunnel or test section you have, including window size, and we will advise on fitting the apparatus to it.
Why does optical quality matter in a Schlieren Apparatus?
In a Schlieren Apparatus, any flaw in the mirrors or lenses shows up as false light and dark patches. This apparatus uses mirrors and lenses of high optical standard to reduce the possibility of optical distortion in the images.
Who manufactures the Schlieren Apparatus?
The Schlieren Apparatus is manufactured by Jain Scientific Equipments Pvt Ltd (ScienceLab), the OEM, at its licensed factory in Ambala, Haryana, India. It is supplied factory-direct to universities, dealers and importers in India and international markets.
How can I request a quotation for the Schlieren Apparatus?
To request a quotation for the Schlieren Apparatus, send the details of your wind tunnel or test section, the number of sets and the delivery location through the contact page, and the manufacturer will reply directly.
Prices for the Schlieren Apparatus are quoted direct by the manufacturer. Use the contact page or add the apparatus to the enquiry cart.
Last updated: 24 September 2026