TsAGI specialists developing the concept of a cryogenic integrated-circuit heavy transport aircraft
16 January 2017
Specialists of the Central AeroHydrodynamic Institute named after professor N.E. Zhukovsky (TsAGI, a part of the Scientific Research Center “Institute named after N.E. Zhukovsky”) are developing the concept of an integrated-circuit heavy transport aircraft. Such layout combines functions of a wing with those of a body to take optimal advantage of the aircraft interior and to enhance the aerodynamic efficiency.
The aircraft is intended for intercontinental transportation of large amounts of cargo — up to 500 t, including transportation in approved containers. They are to be placed in compartments inside a wing and loaded via flap doors of fore-sections (leading edges) in the aircraft’s center. The aircraft will utilize existing runways. The largest part of this aircraft’s flight takes place at an altitude of
As part of the concept research, a model was created and tested by the Institute’s specialists in a subsonic wind tunnel. The works were performed at cruise and take-off and landing ratings. Water, ice and ground surfaces were simulated with a screen, which was a plate with rounded corners. The experiment has proved that the layout under research has a high aerodynamic cleanness both near, and in the absence of the screen, thus enabling a steady and guided flight of the aircraft.
The aircraft is to employ liquefied natural gas. This cryogenic fuel has a higher energy efficiency and lower noxious emissions as compared to aviation kerosene. Use of natural gas will ensure environmental safety of a flight, thus giving a weighty competitive advantage as compared to existing transportation systems.