Comparison of Helicopter Component Fatigue Test Results to Analysis

Abstract:
The safe-life fatigue methodology approach, combined with fatigue testing, is used throughout the industry to qualify helicopter components. In the early stages of helicopter development, limited component fatigue test results are available. As a result, component designs risk failure in down-stream testing. Alternatively, an over-designed component risks adding unnecessary weight to the aircraft. This paper discusses an analytical approach for fatigue evaluation with the purpose of minimizing these risks. The approach, applied to a flight-critical metallic component, utilizes finite element modeling and coupon fatigue test data to assess the component's design early-on. Analytically predicted component fatigue strength is assessed and compared to measured component fatigue test results to draw conclusions regarding the validity of the analytical approach. In summary, the analytical method compares favorably to the component test data.

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