Modeling and Testing of Fluidic Flexible Matrix Composite Lead–Lag Dampers

Abstract

A new lead–lag damper concept using a fluidic flexible matrix composite (F2MC) tube is presented in this paper. A model is developed for an articulated rotor blade integrated with an F2MC damper consisting of an F2MC tube, an inertia track, an orifice, and a hydraulic accumulator. Benchtop tests using a 4.5-ft rotor blade demonstrate the performance of a smallscale F2MC damper. The blade–damper system model predictions are verified by comparing experimentally measured and model-predicted frequency response data. In benchtop tests, the model predicts blade damping ratios of up to 0.34 with the F2MC damper. A simplified articulated blade based on the UH-60 rotor is simulated to assess the feasibility of a full-scale F2MC damper. Simulation results predict that the damper can generate blade damping ratios of over 0.30 at low blade lag angles.