Hi-Tech Shower For Typhoon
13 Jun 2005
Typhoon has taken its first plunge in a new state-of-the-art water shower test facility that has been installed at BAE Systems Warton in the UK. The purpose of the facility is to ensure that all Typhoon aircraft are completely waterproof.
The new facility wraps around the aircraft and simulates severe weather conditions. A series of 136 full cone spray nozzles will ensure the Typhoons are sprayed uniformly, horizontally and vertically, over the entire aircraft, simulating heavy rain. The system can spray at a rate of around 100mm per hour over a 20 minute test period.
Phil Fazackerley, BAE Systems Typhoon final assembly business manager comments, “Once the aircraft has been subjected to the process, over eighty panels are unscrewed/ unlatched and the internal areas inspected for leakage. Areas such as the avionic bays should obviously be completely water tight, whilst those fitted with waterpaths are also checked.”
Phil added: "The system is flexible, it can be collapsed down and stored at the side of the hangar, it is also mobile and could be used elsewhere on site if necessary.”
The original test involved manually spraying each fighter, a process that took about one week. This timescale has been greatly reduced using the new system.
The new facility, which cost approximately 100K, was produced specifically for the Typhoon programme by AMSS based in South Wales, with technical support being given by BAE Systems personnel at Warton.
About BAE SYSTEMS
BAE Systems is an international company engaged in the development, delivery and support of advanced defence and aerospace systems in the air, on land, at sea and in space. The company designs, manufactures and supports military aircraft, surface ships, submarines, fighting vehicles, radar, avionics, communications, electronics and guided weapon systems. It is a pioneer in technology with a heritage stretching back hundreds of years. It is at the forefront of innovation, working to develop the next generation of intelligent defence systems.
BAE Systems has major operations across five continents and customers in some 130 countries. The company has more than 90,000 people and generates annual sales of over 13 billion through its wholly-owned and joint venture operations.
For further information, please contact:
Debbie Stott BAE Systems
Tel: +44 (0) 1772-852995 Fax: +44 (0) 1772 856524
deborah.stott@baesystems.com
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