TAILTEST – Development of a multipurpose test rig and validation of an innovative rotorcraft vertical tail

Jun 7, 2021

Clean Sky 2 JU (Horizon 2020 actions)

Call reference No: JTI-CS2-2018-CFP09

Grant agreement: 865123

Project description

The overall objectives of TAILTEST project are to perform structural tests to support the certification process of a rotorcraft tail and to develop and validate advanced numerical models for the simulation of debonding propagation in structural joints.

TAILTEST high level objectives are:

• to develop and manufacture a multipurpose test rig of a rotorcraft V-tail,

• to perform and evaluate structural tests of the V-tail building blocks, from coupon level to panel level

• to validate numerical models to support the certification process of an innovative rotorcraft vertical tail.

• to develop, apply and validate advanced numerical models for the simulation of debonding propagation on structural joints.

TAILTEST major outputs comprise experimental testing and validated numerical modelling that will contribute to the certification of the innovative rotorcraft vertical tail. All stages of the investigation involve correlation of experimental results to detailed numerical FE models that further contribute to the establishment of the structural integrity of the V-tail and the careful selection of materials and components.

A key characteristic required by the test rig design is that variable stiffness is needed, such that the actual behaviour of the fuselage at which the fin will be attached will be properly emulated.

VZLU is project coordinator with responsibility for developing and manufacturing of a multipurpose test rig of a rotorcraft V-tail, conducting and evaluation of structural tests of the V-tail building block (panel, demonstrator), numerical models validation and the certification process supporting, and developing, application and validation of advanced numerical models for the simulation of debonding propagation on structural joints.