MC-21-300 Image: UAC
Commercial
Aviation
/ Russia
Composite materials
MC-21 undergoes tests with national parts
By: Rafael Ramos
On: 8/12/2022
MC-21 model
Source: Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute
The Irkut MC-21-300 is undergoing a movement where its parts are being replaced by national components.
A 1:7 scale model was created and further tests were performed on it. The model has an extension of 5.19 m and weighs 219 kg.
The carbon fiber wings were finished and are nicknamed “black wings” because of the color of the material. The plane will be built with about 40% composite materials, which are lighter and stronger than the materials normally used. Also, the wings can be more aerodynamic when using this type of material. These advantages, according to the designers, should make the aircraft 6% more efficient than competing aircraft.
“Using the new material led to changes in bending and torsional stiffness, as well as the distribution of the wing's mass inertia characteristics,” says Anton Dolgopolov, a researcher in the institute's aircraft resistance analysis division.
The model completed a series of tests proving the efficiency as expected. In a second moment, already in progress, the flutter tests were carried out.
The Flutter test is done with pilots revving the engines while diving, in order to reach speeds higher than those established in the plane's design. Thus, the behavior in these situations is verified.
The new material tested did not show any characteristic of suffering the “flutter” effect, not even above the established operational limits. The tests are led by Instituto Aerohidrodinamico Central.
In addition, Pratt engines
Rafael Ramos
Aviation enthusiast from an early age, he had his first contacts with the area developing that good old habit of spending dozens of hours in front of the screens of Micrsoft Flight Simulator and other simulators. With a solid background in various technological areas, including engineering and chemistry, Rafael has rejoined aviation as editor and author of articles and materials on our portal, providing invaluable help to the dynamics and expansion of the website and the aeronautical community, bringing us the news and updates so indispensable for us to remain current in our area of operation.
   
|
|