WIND TUNNEL TESTS OF TURBOPROP ENGINE CHARACTERISTICS DURING BIRD INGESTION,

Abstract

Tests were conducted to determine specific reactions to the ingestion of birds up to critical quantities by an Allison Model 501-D13 turboprop engine/propeller combination. Performance data were obtained for operations at takeoff power and simulated airspeeds ranging from 100 to 140 knots. The engine was subjected to ingestion of 231 starlings in densities of 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 8 birds per test, and ingestion of 1 sea gull. The simultaneous ingestion of from one to three starlings did not compromise test article operation. The siimultaneous ingestion of four starlings induced power disruptions which could preclude continued engine operation during an in-flight occurrence. The simultaneous and/or sequenced ingestion of six or more starlings critically affected engine/propeller performance and resulted in marginal operating conditions. The results obtained during the test program clearly indicate that multiple bird ingestions can critically affect gas turbine propulsion system operation without causing mechanical damage. (Author)

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Nov 01, 1963
Accession Number
AD0431504

Entities

People

  • Donald M. Millar

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Birds
  • Digestive System Processes
  • Engines
  • Gas Turbines
  • Propellers
  • Propulsion Systems
  • Turbines
  • Turboprop Engines
  • Wind Tunnel Tests
  • Wind Tunnels

Readers

  • Aerospace Engineering