Articles

Fabrication and Performance Evaluation of Micro-channels in Aircraft Wind-tunnel-models for Pressure Measurements Using Stereolithography

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  • 1. State Kye Lab for Manufacturing systems Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China;
    2. Chengdu Aircraft Design & Research Institute, China Aviation Industry Group, Chengdu 610041, China

Received date: 2011-04-18

  Revised date: 2011-05-23

  Online published: 2011-12-08

Abstract

In order to overcome the difficulties with machining the internal channels of a wind tunnel aircraft model for pressure measurements, this paper proposes the use of stereolithography to realize the integrated forming of aerodynamic configurations and internal channels. A series of micro-channels with different diameters and lengths are fabricated, and their forming qualities are examined with an optical microscope system. The diameters of cross-sections are also measured to conform with the radius compensation principle concerning the parameters such as diameter, length and prototyping direction. Air tightness and air permeability of the micro-channels is verified by means of a special test device. Therefore, the channels based on stereolithography meet the requirements of wind tunnel test and they are able to replace the metal tubes.

Cite this article

ZHANG Wei, LI Dichen, ZHAO Xinglei, ZHU Weijun, WANG Wei, LIU Jun . Fabrication and Performance Evaluation of Micro-channels in Aircraft Wind-tunnel-models for Pressure Measurements Using Stereolithography[J]. ACTA AERONAUTICAET ASTRONAUTICA SINICA, 2011 , 32(12) : 2335 -2340 . DOI: CNKI:11-1929/V.20110620.1341.003

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