Aerodynamic Measurement Probes: Kiel, Multi-Hole, Omnidirectional and Smart Probes

The right choice depends on what your application requires you to measure. Kiel probes are the best option when you need accurate total pressure measurement in a complex flow where the angle of attack is unknown or variable — they maintain accuracy at flow angles up to +/-50 degrees, well beyond the +/-5 degree limit of a traditional Pitot tube. Five-hole probes resolve the full three-dimensional flow vector, providing total pressure, static pressure, and flow direction in both yaw and pitch — they are the preferred choice when complete 3D flow characterization is required. Yaw pitots measure both dynamic pressure and wind yaw angle simultaneously, and are widely used in on-vehicle and on-track applications where accurate correlation of wind tunnel or CFD data depends on knowing the ambient yaw angle. Our engineering team can help you determine the right instrument for your test requirements.

A Kiel probe reads total pressure accurately at flow angles up to +/-50 degrees; a plain pitot tube is accurate only within about +/-5 degrees of the flow direction. The Kiel probe’s shrouded head straightens the incoming flow before it reaches the pressure port, which is why it is used where the flow angle is unknown or changes during a test, such as engine inlets, exhaust ducts and on-vehicle work. A pitot-static tube remains the right choice when the flow direction is known and static pressure is also required from the same probe.

A 5-hole probe has a center port and four ports spaced around the tip. The pressure difference between the opposing side ports gives the flow angle in pitch and yaw; the center port approximates total pressure; and the calibration tables convert all five readings into total pressure, static pressure and the three-dimensional flow vector. Each standard probe is calibrated across its operating speed and its full +/-45 degree angle range, so the lookup tables can be used directly in real-time acquisition or post-processing. An optional static ring improves static pressure accuracy in low-velocity-gradient conditions, such as a UAV nose.

Yes. K-Tec Systems’ custom thermocouples and RTDs can be incorporated into compatible probe designs for simultaneous flow and temperature measurement at the same location. Thermocouple wire is selected to match your specific application requirements and integrated directly into the probe. Contact our team to discuss combined sensing configurations.

Probes are available in stainless steel, Inconel, and titanium. Stainless steel covers the majority of applications; Inconel is specified for high-temperature environments up to 980 degrees C; titanium is selected for weight-critical applications.

Yes. Additive manufacturing (DMLS) allows integration of standard probe heads into custom shapes, rakes, and complex installations. Contact K-Tec Systems to discuss your specific application requirements.

Yes. K-Tec Systems is registered to do business with the U.S. Government. Our CAGE Code is 4W0S0. We are a WBENC and WOSB-certified woman-owned small business. For government or defense purchasing inquiries, contact our sales team at 248-414-4100.

Standard Kiel probe configurations (KP12, KP37, KP57) are quoted individually and include wind-tunnel calibration data. Custom rakes are quoted from your drawing. Call 248-414-4100 or send your application details for a prompt quote.

Angle of attack is the angle between the oncoming flow and a reference axis on the vehicle or test article. An omnidirectional probe has a spherical head with 14 pressure ports. Flow angle and velocity are calculated from the pressure pattern across those ports, which lets the probe resolve direction over a far wider range than a conventional 5-hole probe, including flow that changes direction or reverses. Smart versions process the signals onboard and output angle, velocity and pressure over USB. Angle range and accuracy are confirmed at quotation for the selected configuration.

Both use a shrouded Kiel head so the reading stays valid when the flow does not arrive head-on. A Kiel pressure probe measures total pressure through ports behind the shroud. A Kiel temperature probe holds a thermocouple or resistance sensor in the shroud and measures total temperature. The two can be used together at the same point in the flow, and K-Tec Systems can review a combined layout for your test.

A smart probe combines a multi-hole sensing head with onboard electronics. It reports velocity, flow angles, pressure and temperature in engineering units over USB, so a separate pressure scanner and data reduction software are not needed for a first measurement. It suits quick surveys, field work and development testing. A conventional probe with a pressure scanner is the better fit when you need many measurement points at once, a custom calibration, or a fixed installation.

A radiator probe is a Kiel-head total pressure probe built to measure total pressure and mass flow distribution through a radiator or heat exchanger, with low blockage so it does not disturb the flow it is measuring. It is used in vehicle cooling and aerodynamic development, where airflow uniformity across the core affects thermal performance.

Contact K-Tec Systems at 248-414-4100 or orders@k-tecsystems.com. Our engineering team will review your application requirements and recommend the appropriate probe, material, and configuration.