TsAGI completes the first stage of helicopter VRT500 testing

1 August 2018

Specialists of the Zhukovsky Central AeroHydrodynamic Institute (TsAGI) held the first stage of aerodynamic tests of the VRT500 model, a light multi-purpose helicopter with coaxial rotors. The helicopter is a project by Russian Helicopters (State Corporation Rostec) and developed by its subsidiary VR-Technologies.

A 1:4-scale model was tested in TsAGI’s free spinning vertical wind tunnel. During the experiments, scientists identified the drag data of the body and its most important parts: fuselage, nacelle, rotor column and tail.

In addition, scientists studied aerodynamic characteristics of helicopter chassis models in a wide range of angles of attack and slip, including the characteristics of longitudinal and lateral static stability of the VRT500 body. Finally, the experts studied the model body Spectra wrapping and measured induced angles of attack in tail area. The results confirmed the helicopter estimates.

The VRT500 is a light single-engine helicopter with twin three-blade coaxial rotors. Its takeoff weight is 1600 kg. The machine has the largest-in-its-class passenger/cargo cabin for up to 5 people and is equipped with a modern, interactive avionics complex. Its flight characteristics enable the helicopter to reach speeds of up to 250 km/h, flying at a distance of up to 860 km, taking on-board up to a 730 kg payload. The helicopter is intended for passenger, multi-purpose, commercial, educational, and medical operations.

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