Sat, Jun 21, 2008
Can You Feel The Power?
Boeing has finally completed the Power On sequence for the
first 787 Dreamliner, marking the completion of the next major
milestone on the path to first flight later this year.
'Power On' is a complex series of tasks and tests that bring
electrical power onto the airplane and begin to exercise the use of
the electrical systems. The 787 is a more-electric airplane with
the pneumatic, or bleed air, system being totally replaced by
electronics.
"The team has made great progress in bringing the bold
innovation of the 787 to reality," said Pat Shanahan, vice
president and general manager of the 787 program.
"There is plenty of work to be done between now and first
flight, but with every step forward we grow more and more
confident."
The Power On sequence began in early June with a series of
pretest continuity checks to verify that the wiring installed in
the airplane had been connected properly. Upon completion of those
checks, the Boeing team plugged in an external power cart and
slowly began to bring full power into each segment of the system,
beginning with the flight deck displays. From that point forward,
the pilot's controls were used to direct the addition of new
systems to the power grid.
At each step of the testing, power is allowed to flow into one
additional area and gauges are used to verify that the right level
of electrical power reached the intended area. "We are very
methodical in ensuring the integrity of the airplane's systems,"
said Shanahan. "In completing the Power On sequence, we have
verified both that the electrical power distribution system is
installed as designed and that it functions as intended."
Work will continue to finish building the first 787 and further
test its readiness for operations. First flight is expected in the
fourth quarter. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is a more fuel-efficient
mid-sized jetliner capable of serving on long-distance routes. The
787 is expected to enter revenue service in 2009 after an extensive
flight test program.
Fifty-eight customers around the world have ordered nearly 900
787s since the program was launched in April 2004.
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