In the framework of the Design & Development (D&D) phase of the NH90 helicopter program, a wind tunnel test program is carried out using various sub-scale models to determine the aerodynamic behaviour of the vehicle. Approximately 1900 hours of wind tunnel tests have been conducted since 1987 in the Netherlands (Low Speed wind Tunnel LST and German Dutch Wind tunnel DNW) and in France (Eurocopter France ECF low speed wind tunnel). The National Aerospace Laboratory NLR conducted tests with a drag model and powered models (partial tail rotor model and main rotor model, including engine installation modules). At ECF partial models of the air intake system and exhaust system have been tested extensively. Rotor/interaction models were used für stabilizer trade studies. Engine intake and exhaust configuration studies were conducted. Rotor performance and helicopter stability were verified. A series of fuselage model tests were conducted to assist in airframe development. The availability of a range of dedicated (powered) models and execution of wind tunnel tests was a substantial contribution to the development risk reduction effort performed for the multinational NH90 helicopter program.
Overview of the NH90 wind tunnel test activities and the benefits to the helicopter development
Überblick über die Windkanaluntersuchungen am Hubschrauber NH90 und deren Nutzen für die Helikopterentwicklung
Forum, Annual Forum, 53 ; 1 ; 240-257
1998
18 Seiten, 25 Bilder, 1 Tabelle
Conference paper
English
Overview of the NH90 Wind Tunnel Test Activities and the Benefits to Helicopter Development
| British Library Conference Proceedings | 1997
NH90 Helicopter Development Wind Tunnel Programme
| NTIS | 1997
The NH90 Helicopter Development Wind Tunnel Programme
| British Library Conference Proceedings | 1997