Ground Run-Up Enclosures, Blast Deflectors, Acoustic Barriers and Cabins

A ground-breaking Ground Run-Up Enclosure (GRE) has been launched today by IAC Global Aviation to serve the ‘next generation’ of commercial aircraft.

Marking a significant milestone in on-wing aero-engine testing, the new GRE delivers extremely efficient aerodynamic properties while maintaining the facility’s excellent acoustic performance. Design and longevity benefit from the experience gained from facilities used daily as far back as the early 1990s.

Historically, improvements to the acoustic performance of a GRE tended to impair the aerodynamic characteristics, and vice versa. In the development of the new GRE IAC utilised over 60 years’ experience and the latest simulation techniques to overcome the typical compromises in design which benefit one or another of the performance aspects of the facility. This next generation facility offers a significantly improved aerodynamic configuration, based upon proven IAC products, in a new and exciting way without compromise of the acoustic standard set by the previous generation of IAC GRE products.

Nick Smith, Business Manager, IAC Global Aviation said: “I am wholly confident that the aerodynamic performance of our new GRE beats that of any in operation to-date worldwide. Aircraft testing can be carried out in ambient wind conditions that previously restricted engine running. Combined with high acoustic performance, the availability for the testing of aircraft has never been better for maintenance organizations.”

Patents are pending for the two key components of the new GRE, Jetshield™ (rear wall) and Aerowall™ (side walls) and the first model with the new design will be operational in late 2011 at one of the world’s largest airlines at one of the world’s busiest airports.

The Jetshield™ rear wall delivers extreme aerodynamic and acoustic performance in a single structure. The wall combines collector, deflector and ejector features to redirect and accelerate the thrust wake away from the facility. The airflow direction and velocities mean that air re-ingestion is virtually eliminated for all types of ambient conditions, including headwind, crosswind and tailwind. The single construction reduces the overall footprint of the facility – a considerable benefit with larger aircraft and reduced space on airports.

The Aerowall™ side walls are specifically designed to offer extreme aerodynamic and acoustic performance. Incorporating IAC Powerflow™ silencers, the walls mitigate the detrimental effects of crosswinds while reducing airflow distortion and vortices within the facility. These improvements have resulted in a GRE which can be used more often, in conditions that were not previously possible.

Benefiting from modular assembly and single construction rear wall, the Code F / VI (A380 size) GRE typically occupies only 90m x 90m x 14m and can be erected in just 6 months. Furthermore, simple foundations requirements mean the facility can easily be relocated, should operational requirements necessitate. These new facilities will aid in future-proofing the testing facilities for some of largest airlines in the world. The facility can also be clad to match the surrounding buildings and offer an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Cabins and storage can also be accommodated within the wall cavity, increasing utilisation.

Nick Smith again: “Effective and cost effective, many airports worldwide will recognize that the increased availability our GRE offers significant operational benefit. Here at IAC Global Aviation we go the extra mile and often work with maintenance organizations, airports and local authorities’ planning departments to provide a complete service right from noise mapping, through to full proving of the facility.”

For more information about the GRE, visit http://www.industrialacoustics.com/uk/airport_services/ground-run-up-enclosures.asp.

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Notes to the Editors

IAC Global Aviation is part of the IAC group founded in 1949 – one of the largest acoustics companies in the world. With over 60 years’ experience in the aircraft engine testing industry the company has existing GREs in service for over 15 years.

IAC Global Aviation designs, manufactures and installs a large range of aircraft and aircraft engine test facilities, from hush houses to uninstalled mobile facilities, from turbofan to APU. We have worked with many of the world’s leading engine manufacturers, maintenance centres and fleet operators, both civil and military, including Rolls-Royce plc, Pratt & Whitney, Pratt & Whitney Canada, General Electric, Honeywell, Royal Air Force; US Navy; British Airways; BAA.

IAC’s global headquarters are in Winchester, UK www.industrialacoustics.com