Project Includes System Development, Configuration, And Comprehensive Training

Moog's Industrial Group, a division of Moog Inc. has delivered an aerospace test rig to the Korean Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) that will perform a wide range of structural and fatigue tests for helicopters. This system is part of a multi-billion dollar procurement project by the South Korean Ministry of National Defense to develop and build 245 utility helicopters over a 16-year period.

Moog's previous experience with similar test rig installations, knowledge of helicopter test techniques and on-the-ground technical support from its Korean engineering team were key reasons for KARI's selection of Moog for this project. That system, which was installed in just three days in 2008, now runs full-scale structural tests and has potential for 12 independent helicopter tests.

The technically-challenging requirements brief sent to Moog specified the need for a vendor to build the hydraulic system, actuator and data acquisition system to carry out static structural tests and fatigue tests for the helicopter rotor system. The hydraulic system was installed in the Rotary Wing Aircraft Laboratory to supply the flow used in the hydraulic actuator for repetitive loading during the fatigue test.

The KARI test rig needed to create and measure forces to simulate and test real-time durability and life of helicopter components- especially fatigue tests on the rotor, hub and blades. Furthermore, it needed to integrate seamlessly with KARI's existing data acquisition systems and hydraulic control equipment in their new test labs.

Moog Test Controller

"The KARI project was very specific in its requirements and presented us with a really exciting technical challenge. Our engineering team and our depth of experience in aero test rigs and helicopter testing were crucial to the success of this program and we are delighted with the end-result," said Tom Pierce, Business Development Director for test systems. "The new aero test system gives KARI a multitude of benefits ranging from cost efficient operation, virtually unlimited flexibility and total access to local Moog expertise and ongoing system support."

FMI: www.moog.com