NASA Tests Aircraft Noise-Reducing Technologies

A team of engineers from NASA's Langley Research Center (Hampton, VA) and industry partners are flight-testing new technologies such as scalloped edges on engine exteriors and toboggan-like fittings on landing gear that could make aircraft engines quieter. A specially equipped Boeing 777 jet was outfitted with microphone arrays and other measurement devices to record noise levels in a test of the technologies.

The Quiet Aircraft Technology project is testing improved chevron designs on the engines, and a cover that fits on the landing gear, which was designed by Goodrich Corp. The cover streamlines the gear and makes it quieter. NASA research indicated that when landing, air rushing past conventional landing gear was almost as loud as engine noise. The covered gear design could reduce noise by another three decibels.

The project aims to reduce aircraft noise by 50% in 10 years, and by 75% in 25 years. The project is part of NASA's Vehicle Systems Program.

Visit www.aeronautics.nasa.gov/vsp for more information.

Copyright Associated Business Publications Oct 2005
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