Sikorsky Whirl Tests Active Rotor System

Sikorsky Aircraft wrapped up whirl testing of a demonstration rotor system with active flaps as part of the company’s “commitment to design, develop, test and ultimately field next-generation technologies that will advance the current state of rotorcraft.” Development partners on the project are United Technologies Research Center for the blades and Hamilton Sundstrand Claverham for the flap actuators. According to Sikorsky advanced programs manager Jim Kagdis, “We have reached full speed of 450 rpm and commenced testing flap integrity and functionality. Now we will investigate rotor reconfiguration capabilities to demonstrate the potential to reduce rotor vibration and noise, and increase blade loading, which enables higher maneuverability and speed.” Wind-tunnel testing of the system is scheduled for next year.