ThinKom reports “near-zero” drag for antenna radome

0

ThinKom Solutions has released a statement claiming that an aerodynamic analytic study has found the drag values for its Ka-band satellite antenna to be “extremely low” when installed on regional jets.

David Lednicer, vice president of engineering at Aeromechanical Solutions, an aviation consultancy based in Redmond, Washington, conducted a series of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analyses to predict the drag and incremental fuel burn for ThinKom’s Ka2517 antenna on different regional jet airframes under representative cruise conditions. According to ThinKom, in all cases, the report found that the drag increase due to the installation of the antenna was determined to be less than 0.4% of the aircraft’s already low cruise drag.

The study used the Star-CCM+ Navier-Stokes CFD Program, a software package which allows all of the flow physics to be modelled. The regional jets evaluated in the study included the Boeing 717, Embraer ERJ-145 and ERJ-175, and the Bombardier CRJ-200, CRJ-550 and CRJ-700.

“This independent analysis by a recognised industry expert confirms the feasibility for airline carriers to outfit their regional jet fleets with broadband in-flight connectivity (IFC),” claimed Bill Milroy, chief technical officer of ThinKom Solutions. “It’s imperative that aerodynamic drag and weight be minimised to make satellite IFC economically viable on these aircraft.”

Share this story:

About Author

mm

Ever since his first flight on a TriStar, Adam has loved air travel, and since becoming editor of the Aircraft Interiors International brand he has really enjoyed the opportunity to be involved with the latest aircraft and airline products before they are even launched. Adam co-ordinates the running of the magazine, from commissioning articles and artwork, to ensuring that high standards of quality are maintained, as well as managing online content. Adam is proud to sit on the jury of the Crystal Cabin Awards and to have laid on the bed in Etihad's Residence.

Comments are closed.