Test Places 150% Of Highest Possible Normal Load On Wing
Surface
Bombardier Aerospace in Belfast has completed the
ultimate load test on the CSeries aircraft composite demonstrator
wing, successfully replicating 150 per cent of the most severe
forces the wing is ever likely to experience in service.
The Belfast operation is responsible for the design, manufacture
and integration of the complete wing for the CSeries aircraft,
including all flight control surfaces and high lift systems. A key
feature is the composite torque box, which is being produced using
Belfast's innovative Resin Transfer Infusion composite technology.
As part of the complex research and development programme, a
full-scale, three-quarter span pre-production demonstrator wing was
assembled, which has been undergoing rigorous testing.
Artist's Concept
Loads were progressively increased on the demonstrator wing in
order to simulate aerodynamic, landing gear and engine pylon
forces, until ultimate loading was successfully achieved.
"We are now assessing the data from the thousands of strain
gauges, and are delighted with the results we've obtained so far,"
said Michael Ryan, Vice President and General Manager, Bombardier
Aerospace, Belfast. "The data will help us to optimize the final
production design for weight and performance. This successful
demonstrator test confirms that our Resin Transfer Infusion process
is an excellent means by which to manufacture the large primary
structural elements of the composite wing torque box for the
CSeries aircraft."
CSeries Wing Test File Photo
Having successfully achieved ultimate loading, Bombardier
engineers are continuing to carry out further tests on the
demonstrator wing to assess the wing's capability of sustaining
various types and levels of damage. This will also allow them to
ensure that repair systems are proven before the aircraft enter
into service.
"We want to take every opportunity to learn as much as we
possibly can before we finalize the wing design and start
production. We are focusing on and testing various areas so we can
be absolutely confident in the structure and its maintainability.
This is another means by which we are building confidence amongst
our customers and potential customers," Mr. Ryan added.
In addition to the assembly and testing of the demonstrator
wing, Bombardier Aerospace, Belfast has carried out over 4,000
individual material, structural detail and sub-component
development tests to prove out the design, manufacturing and
assembly technologies being employed.
Production of the CSeries aircraft wings is due to get under way
early in 2011 in a new 600,000 sq ft (55,742 m2) purpose-built
factory in Belfast, the first phase of which is nearing
completion.
CSeries Wing Test File Photo
Since launching the CSeries family of aircraft at the
Farnborough Air Show in July 2008, Bombardier has recorded firm
orders for a total of 90 CSeries aircraft, comprising a firm order
from Republic Airways for 40 CS300 aircraft, a firm order from
Deutsche Lufthansa AG for 30 CS100 aircraft, and one from Lease
Corporation International Group for 17 CS300 and three CS100
aircraft. The programme has also booked options for an additional
90 CSeries aircraft. The CSeries aircraft, which is optimized for
the single-aisle 100- to 149-seat market, will deliver the lowest
operating costs in its class, exceptional operational flexibility,
widebody comfort and an unmatched environmental scorecard.