Boeing Completes 787 Dreamliner ‘High Blow’ Test
EVERETT, Wash., Sept. 27, 2008 — Boeing [NYSE:BA] successfully completed a high-pressure test, known as “high blow,” on the 787 Dreamliner
static test airframe at its Everett factory today. The test is one of
three static tests that must be cleared prior to first flight. During
the test, the airframe reached an internal pressure of 150 percent of
the maximum levels expected to be seen in service – 14.9 lbs. per
square inch (1.05 kilograms per centimeter) gauge (psig). It took
nearly two hours to complete the test, as pressure was slowly increased
to ensure the integrity of the airplane.“We had
every confidence going into this test because of the extensive work
we’ve done on larger and larger pieces of composite – from small
coupons to fuselage sections,” said Pat Shanahan, vice president and
general manager of the 787 program. “Still, it’s very rewarding to see
a whole airplane being tested and having the results we expected.“I am so proud of the team that has worked on this program and the progress we are making.”
Image Credit: The Boeing Company
The remaining two tests will structurally validate the leading edges and trailing edges of the wings of ZY997 before Dreamliner One can fly. Boeing did not announce a timeline for when these tests will be conducted.
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This post originally appeared at Flightglobal.com from 2007 to 2012.