Experimental tests concerning the impact resistance of a tailplane

The article presents impact tests carried out for the elements of a tailplane. The author describes the experiments in which a head-on and an off-centre collision of a bird-imitating object with the leading edge of the tailplane were recreated. The tests were performed with the use of an impact system with a projectile thrower in form of a 250 mm pneumatic gun. Objects made of gelatine and imitating birds were used in the tests. The collision was recorded by two high-speed cameras positioned at different angles to the axis of movement of a thrown projectile. The article presents the test system, test procedures and the results of the experiments available in form of a recorded image of the collision. Additionally, the effects the head-on and off-centre collisions have on the tested aircraft structures are shown.