TY - JOUR
T1 - Aerodynamic testing of helicopter side intake retrofit modifications
AU - Knoth, Florian
AU - Breitsamter, Christian
N1 - Publisher Copyright:
© 2017 by the authors.
PY - 2017/9/1
Y1 - 2017/9/1
N2 - Aerodynamic characteristics of helicopter engine side air intakes are investigated. The experimental data set is obtained by wind tunnel testing of a full-scale helicopter fuselage section model. For the simulation of realistic engine operation, engine mass flow rates are reproduced. Five-hole pressure probe data of the aerodynamic interface plane as well as local surface pressure distributions are compared for different geometries and operation conditions. Previous investigations indicate that unshielded, sideways-facing air intakes yield lowest distortion and highest total pressure levels in low speed conditions. In fast forward flight condition, however, forward-facing intake shapes are more beneficial. On this basis, the current research assesses the optimization potential of retrofit modifications such as a rear spoiler (small scoop) and an intake guide vane. Two optimal configurations of retrofit modifications are identified, combining benefits of the various basic intake and plenum chamber shapes.
AB - Aerodynamic characteristics of helicopter engine side air intakes are investigated. The experimental data set is obtained by wind tunnel testing of a full-scale helicopter fuselage section model. For the simulation of realistic engine operation, engine mass flow rates are reproduced. Five-hole pressure probe data of the aerodynamic interface plane as well as local surface pressure distributions are compared for different geometries and operation conditions. Previous investigations indicate that unshielded, sideways-facing air intakes yield lowest distortion and highest total pressure levels in low speed conditions. In fast forward flight condition, however, forward-facing intake shapes are more beneficial. On this basis, the current research assesses the optimization potential of retrofit modifications such as a rear spoiler (small scoop) and an intake guide vane. Two optimal configurations of retrofit modifications are identified, combining benefits of the various basic intake and plenum chamber shapes.
KW - Air intakes
KW - Experimental aerodynamics
KW - Helicopters
UR - http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?scp=85042698454&partnerID=8YFLogxK
U2 - 10.3390/aerospace4030033
DO - 10.3390/aerospace4030033
M3 - Article
AN - SCOPUS:85042698454
SN - 2226-4310
VL - 4
JO - Aerospace
JF - Aerospace
IS - 3
M1 - 33
ER -