Nacelle Aerodynamic and Inertial Loads (NAIL) project

Abstract

Inlet airloads were measured by integration of pressures recorded at 252 locations on the right hand inboard (JT9D-7A) nacelle of the Boeing 747 aircraft. Pressures were recorded at 45 locations on the right hand outboard nacelle for comparison. Inertial loads were measured on both nacelles using accelerometers and rate gyros. Flight conditions included takeoffs at several gross weights, high g turns, and a simulated acceptance flight. Airloads at takeoff rotation were found to be larger than at any other normal service condition because of the combined effects of high angle of attack and high engine airflow. Inertial loads were smaller than previous estimates had indicated. A procedure is given for estimating inlet airloads at low speeds and high angles of attack for any underwing high bypass ratio turbofan installation approximately resembling the one tested. Flight procedure modifications are suggested that may result in better fuel economy retention in service. Pressures were recorded on the core cowls and pylons of both engine installations and on adjacent wing surfaces for use in development of computer codes for analysis of installed propulsion system aerodynamic drag interference effects.