Specialists of the durability division of TsAGI have completed the buffeting testing of an aerodynamic model of MS-21-200 aircraft in takeoff and landing modes. AEX.ru

“The experiment ordered by Irkut Corporation was carried out using T-103 subsonic low-speed wind tunnel. The specialists of TsAGI’s durability division analyzed the vibration state of aircraft controls (elevators and rudders) and wing devices (flaps) of MS-21-200 aircraft model. The scientists used visualization of the airflow structure using the fibrilla method. The signals from strain sensors and G sensors mounted on the horizontal fin and flaps were recorded by the measuring and computing system”, - the press-service explained.

The tests have been carried out using different configurations of the model in takeoff and landing modes with angle of attack varying from 0 ° to 21 °. The institute’s specialists will analyze the results of the tests, assess the buffeting limits and loads resulting therefrom, define the vibration source and issue recommendations for mitigating this dangerous effect, TsAGI explained.

Buffeting is the forced oscillations (vibrations) of the whole aircraft or its individual components under the influence of unsteady aerodynamic forces generated during airflow about the surface of the aircraft, one of the dynamic aeroelasticity effects. Buffeting affects static and dynamic strength of the aircraft, fatigue strength of its components, stability and controllability, as well as the pilot’s ability to control the aircraft under conditions of jolting. This effect may cause dangerous vibrations of the aircraft. There are known cases of destruction of the aircraft’s components (tail fins, horizontal fins, high lift devices, etc.) caused by buffeting. Buffeting-type vibration of the passenger aircraft are most often recorded in the area of flaps with large deflection angles and empennage.