Robinson helicopters are classified as small helicopters and currently there are no requirements for the use of impact-resistant structures for them. In order to prevent damage from bird strikes during flight, Robinson Helicopters announced impact-resistant windshields for the Robinson 22, Robinson 44 and Robinson 66 models in May of this year. The company was guided by the FAA requirements for large helicopters when developing and manufacturing impact-resistant glass and its design.
All Robinson helicopters are equipped with a windshield made of acrylic. Aviation acrylic is used in glazing helicopters for various purposes. The advantages of this type are reduced weight compared to conventional glass, resistance to atmospheric influences and strength, as well as resistance to fracture. Cast acrylic glass transmits light excellently and does not create distortions, which is very important for piloting safety.
But the company’s specialists went further in this matter. The developers of the protective glass used energy-absorbing polycarbonate as a material. The company conducted its tests in San Antonio, Texas. During the tests, a conventional model of a bird weighing 1 kg was used, which is the FAA standard. During the tests, it was found that for Robinson 22 helicopters, the windshield can withstand impact loads at speeds of up to 167 km / h, and similar glass for Robinson 44 and 66 helicopters at speeds of up to 185 km / h. From experience, we know that the nominal flight speed of a Robinson helicopter, in atmospheric conditions, is 175-180 km / h. The probability of maintaining the flight characteristics and integrity of the helicopter windshield structure increases significantly. The company’s website also presents a video of a glass crash test using a sledgehammer. Even with such an impact, polycarbonate glass demonstrates high results and maintains the integrity of the structure.
The use of such glazing can be very useful during flights in conditions of seasonal bird migrations, as well as in areas of their natural habitat. Moreover, the glass has become more protected from the effects of scratches, atmospheric and other phenomena. The cost of equipping a helicopter with a shockproof windshield design is $ 7,000 and differs slightly from the helicopter model.
16 JUL 2020