The Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute named after Professor N.E. Zhukovsky (TsAGI) is celebrating the 85th anniversary of its large subsonic wind tunnels (ADTs). The T-101 and T-104 block of large tubes, launched in 1939, as well as the T-106 near-sonic variable pressure ADT, which began operation in 1943, have become an integral part of the history of the Soviet and then Russian aviation industry.
“Before the advent of these tubes, the methodology and practice of aircraft finalisation was significantly different. Tests were conducted only in flight, which limited the research possibilities and created risks. TsAGI’s ‘natural’ tubes made it possible to conduct research in laboratory conditions, simulating flight characteristics and engine operation,” TsAGI said.
During the Great Patriotic War, ADTs played a crucial role in the development and testing of Soviet combat aircraft. LaGG and MiG fighters, Yakovlev and Lavochkin machines, Petlyakov and Tupolev bombers were tested at TsAGI. After the war, the installations became the basis for the development of jet aviation, gas turbine propulsion systems and turboprop engines.
During more than eight decades of work in TsAGI wind tunnels, research was carried out on a wide variety of objects, from manned and unmanned aircraft to parachutes, bridges and buildings. Much of the work was devoted to experimental development of turboprop engines, propellers, main and rudder propellers, and air intakes.
At present, ADTs are actively involved in modern projects, such as flutter studies, research into the problems of control over the condition of aircraft structures, development of adaptive materials and components for aircraft. Installations have played an important role in the implementation of flagship passenger transport projects, the SSJ100 and MS-21.
“The installations invariably attract the attention of the institute’s guests: delegations of industry enterprises, media representatives, school and university students. The construction of the Institute’s large wind tunnels took a record short period of three years; these are valuable facilities not only for the experimental base, but also for industrial tourism,” commented TsAGI’s press service.
