EADS MTAD Starts Static Testing of A400M Structure

(Madrid, March 13, 2008) -- The static tests of a dedicated A400M complete structure has begun at the Military Transport Aircraft Division (MTAD) facilities in Getafe, Madrid. The aim of this testing process is to demonstrate the reliability and integrity of the aircraft structure.

To demonstrate these capabilities the A400M structural testing programme at MTAD encompasses three main activities:

First activity is the static testing of the complete aircraft structure built to purpose and which will never fly. This is one of the two structural tests (the other is fatigue) of the complete aircraft in this programme. The main objectives are to demonstrate the structural capability to withstand critical loads for which it has been designed. This MTAD centre is also responsible for checking the behaviour of the elements made of carbon-fibre under cyclical loads (fatigue) for the entire operative life of the structure. The loads will be applied by means of 125 hydraulic actuators commanded by the most advanced controlling system. The stress in the structure under load will be measured at 6000 different locations.

Second, the complete testing of the horizontal tail plane, as part of the non-flying frame. The purpose is to demonstrate the strength of the structure and the tolerance to fatigue.

And third, the structural testing already on the first aircraft assembled at the Final Assembly Line (FAL) in Seville. Two of the three ground tests before first flight have already been successfully completed. These are: the application of loads equivalent to stationary flight and check for correctness and gaps of the wing flight controls and the calibration of the sensors installed on the aircraft to measure the loads in flight.The third ground test - a vibration test to check the structural behaviour under dynamic loads- will be performed in the next months according to schedule.

Source : EADS

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