The Russian company ODK has published a recording of certification tests of the PD-8 aviation engine developed for the aircraft Superjet. The tests assessed the reliability of the propulsion system and flight safety in an unusual bird strike scenario.
The tests were carried out on the company’s open test stand ODK-Saturnlocated in Rybinsk, Yaroslavl Oblast. During the procedure, the engine operated in the maximum starting regime, z 8 tonswhen it was subjected to the simultaneous impact of four birds – simulating a flock – shot from a special four-barreled device from a distance of five meters.
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To replicate real-life conditions, the speed and precision of the strikes were calibrated to the aircraft’s typical takeoff and landing speed of 103 meters per second. The birds hit the most critical areas of the fan blades and the aerodynamic deflector. To facilitate visual assessment, the fan blades are painted yellow and marked with special reference points.
According to the company, PD-8 withstood the test without mechanical damage and retained full controllability. “The engine has passed a rigorous test. The main criterion for success is the absence of damage and continued operation in flight conditions. During the simulation of an unusual situation, the PD-8 did not suffer any damage and retained its maneuverability,” said Sergei Mosin, deputy chief designer of the PD-8, responsible for the engine nacelle and integration with the airframe in ODK-Saturn.
Bird strike tests are part of the certification process conducted by United Engine Corporation, a holding company of Rostec. According to UEC information, the results confirm stable engine operation even in unusual situations and enhance flight safety in real operating conditions.
Currently, the PD-8 is participating in an extensive program of tests on test stands and in flight, the aim of which is to verify the engineering solutions and technical specifications of the project. Previous tests included: fan blade detachment tests, water suction, acoustic evaluations, crosswind operation, and thrust reversal system tests – all successful.
Source and photos: Telegram @uecrus_official. This material has been prepared with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
