Mi 38 technical specifications. The helicopter is from the long-term construction generation. Background to the creation of a new rotorcraft
The Mi-38 is a medium multi-purpose helicopter, the development of which began in the early 80s of the last century. This machine made its first flight on December 22, 2003. Today the helicopter is at the testing stage and is one of the most advanced machines created at the Design Bureau named after. Mile. Many experts predict a brilliant commercial future for the Mi-38.
Serial production of the Mi-38 is planned to be launched at the Kazan Helicopter Plant (KVZ), so far four prototypes have been manufactured. The Mi-38 helicopter has already passed certification of compliance with the standards of the Federal Air Transport Agency, and certification of the passenger modification of the aircraft is expected in 2019.
The development of the Mi-38 began at the request of civil aviation; they planned to replace the Mi-8 and Mi-17. The Mi-38 helicopter is designed to transport passengers and cargo, conduct search and rescue operations, and evacuate the sick and wounded. It is possible that in the future the Russian military will also be interested in the helicopter.
The designers were initially tasked with creating a new machine with high performance characteristics, as well as a high level of comfort and safety for both pilots and passengers. It should be noted that the Mi-38 helicopter was initially designed in accordance with international standards and norms.
The Mi-38 has already set several world records.
History of creation
Back in the early 80s, the leadership of civil aviation of the USSR realized that the reliable and proven Mi-8 aircraft was already outdated, and it was necessary to look for a replacement. A similar opinion was shared by the OKB im. Mile. Based on this, the development of a new Soviet medium helicopter began, it was named Mi-38.
According to the developed project, the Mi-38 helicopter was significantly superior in its technical characteristics to the Mi-8: in fuel efficiency by 1.7 times, in terms of reduced productivity - by 2 times and had a payload of 5 tons (Mi-8–3 tons).
In addition, the Mi-38 had more powerful engines, the safety level of the vehicle increased, and a new set of flight and navigation equipment allowed even one pilot to fly the helicopter.
In 1989, a model of the new car was presented at the international aerospace show in Le Bourget.
In August 1991, the state commission was presented with a model of the new helicopter, and the transfer of technical documentation for the construction of prototypes began.
The collapse of the Soviet Union brought not only serious challenges, but also new opportunities that could not have been dreamed of before. Europeans became interested in the new Milevsky helicopter. In 1994, an agreement was signed on the creation of a joint venture, JSC Euromil, which included the Design Bureau named after. Mil, KVZ and the European concern Eurocopter.
The Europeans developed flight and navigation equipment, a control system, and were involved in interior design. Eurocopter was also responsible for promoting the Mi-38 in Western markets.
In 1995, a modified model of the helicopter was presented at the MAKS-95 exhibition.
In 1999, it was decided to install American Pratt&Whitney PW-127T/S engines on the Mi-38 helicopter. On December 22, 2003 (according to other information on August 25, 2004), the Mi-38 took off for the first time. In October 2004, he flew from Kazan to the Moscow region.
The first stage of the program ended in success, the new helicopter successfully passed initial tests, and its basic flight performance characteristics were confirmed. However, due to the installation of Western engines and equipment on the machine, the cost of the helicopter increased significantly; it became several times more expensive than the Mi-8.
In 2010, the second experimental Mi-38 helicopter took to the skies. It was also equipped with American engines and had a modern avionics suite. The helicopter used the "glass cockpit" concept. This machine was equipped with blades made of composite materials, designed to last the entire service life of the helicopter.
In 2013, the third experimental helicopter was manufactured, equipped with Russian TV7-117V engines. At the end of the year, its test flights began.
The last pre-production model of the Mi-38 was manufactured at the Kazan Helicopter Plant in 2014. It is intended for certification of the machine. Test flights began on October 20, 2014. The helicopter is equipped with an impact-resistant fuel system from Aerazur and larger windows.
Currently, preparations are underway in Kazan for the start of serial production of the helicopter; work is already underway to create the fuselage of the first production Mi-38. A contract has been concluded for the supply of fifty TV7-117V engines until 2019.
At OKB im. Mil and the Kazan Helicopter Plant have high hopes for the Mi-38; the management of the enterprises is confident that the new helicopter will be in demand not only in Russia, but also in neighboring countries, in Latin America, Southeast Asia and Africa - traditional markets for OKB machines Mile.
Although, problems may arise with the implementation of the new helicopter. The fact is that when its development began, it was believed that the Mi-8 would be completely obsolete at the turn of the century, and its place on the market would be easily taken by a new machine with modern ergonomics and more advanced technical characteristics. However, it turned out a little differently.
It turned out that it was too early to write off the honored veteran of the Mi-8: this machine has been subjected to numerous modernizations, and its latest modifications are fully consistent with the realities of the time. The Mi-8 received modern avionics, its payload increased to 4-5 tons, more powerful engines (for example, VK-2500), and the helicopter was brought into compliance with strict Western certification requirements. As a result, it turned out that modern modifications of the Mi-8 have a better price/performance ratio than the Mi-38. It is possible that the Mi-8 is not as convenient for pilots and passengers as the Mi-38, but it is much cheaper, which is often much more important for customers.
Description of design
The Mi-38 helicopter is made according to the traditional design bureau design bureau. Mile design with one main and one tail rotor and a controlled stabilizer on the tail boom. The helicopter is equipped with a three-legged non-retractable energy-absorbing landing gear: even if the vehicle falls from a height of 15 meters, the fuel is guaranteed not to ignite.
The fuselage of the helicopter is a semi-monocoque type, it is made of duralumin and composite materials. The nose cone, cockpit panels, tail boom fairings, and engine cowlings are made from them. The Mi-38 engines are located behind the gearbox, which is somewhat unusual for OKB helicopters. Mile. This arrangement not only made the car more beautiful and elegant, but also improved its aerodynamic properties and flight characteristics. In addition, such a design reduces the level of noise and vibration in the cabin and makes the helicopter safer in the event of an emergency landing.
A weather radar is located in the nose of the helicopter; it is covered with a radio-transparent fairing on top.
The cockpit is located at the front of the vehicle, and most of the fuselage is occupied by a spacious cargo compartment. Its length is 8.7 meters, width - 2.34 m, and height - 1.82 m. The volume of the cargo compartment is almost thirty cubic meters. In the rear part there is a cargo hatch; loading and unloading is carried out using a ramp. There is also a side door, it is equipped with a ladder.
The helicopter is capable of carrying six tons inside the cabin and seven tons on an external sling. There is a winch with a lifting capacity of 300 kg. There is a hatch in the floor of the cargo compartment for installing an external suspension system.
The Mi-38 is equipped with a six-blade variable-pitch main rotor and a tail rotor with four X-shaped blades. A similar propeller was used for the first time in the domestic helicopter industry on the Mi-28. The main rotor hub of the machine is equipped with elastomeric bearings. The main and tail rotor blades are made of fiberglass, which makes their service life practically unlimited. It should be noted that the resources of the main systems and units of the Mi-38 are several times greater than those that were used on the Mi-8 or Mi-17.
The passenger modification of the helicopter is designed to carry thirty people, the seat pitch in the cabin is 0.765 m, and the aisle width is 0.38 m.
To create comfortable conditions for passengers and crew members, the cabins are equipped with ventilation and air conditioning systems. In the cabin there is a buffet, a toilet, and a compartment for storing luggage for passengers.
If we talk about the passenger modification of the helicopter, they plan to produce it in three versions: general, VIP and medical. The “luxury” version of the helicopter will have a luxurious cabin with a capacity of twelve people and a flight range of 700 km. The medical Mi-38 will be capable of transporting sixteen bedridden patients and medical personnel.
The helicopter cabin is equipped with exits and hatches for escape in case of unforeseen situations. On board there are life jackets for crew and passengers, a life raft and an emergency VHF radio. The helicopter can be equipped with a system for emergency splashdown.
The Mi-8's power supply system is redundant; the hydraulic system consists of three autonomous subsystems. Under the floor of the cargo compartment there is a fuel system consisting of six soft tanks with a total volume of 3796 liters. An additional fuel tank can be installed in the cargo compartment.
Production vehicles will be equipped with domestic TV7-117V turboshaft engines with a maximum power of 3,750 hp. With. Initially, it was planned to install American PW127TS engines on the helicopter, but after the conflict with Georgia in 2008, the United States banned their sale to Russia.
The Mi-38 has a three-legged fixed landing gear, which somewhat worsens its aerodynamics, but at the same time reduces take-off weight and simplifies the design.
The Mi-38 is equipped with a modern flight navigation system, a satellite navigation system, and a navigation weather radar. The Mi-38 is equipped with an automated system for monitoring the condition of on-board systems, which significantly reduces the costs and labor intensity of its maintenance. The cockpit is equipped with modern liquid crystal screens, which display information regarding the operation of the helicopter systems. One pilot is enough to control the machine.
Characteristics
Below are the main characteristics of the Mi-38.
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In the 1980s, the Moscow Helicopter Plant began researching a new multi-purpose helicopter to replace the Mi-8 helicopters, which had been mass-produced since 1962 and had proven themselves in operation. In 1987, preliminary design of the helicopter began, which was completed in 1989. In 1989, a model of the new helicopter, designated Mi-38, was demonstrated at the Paris Aviation and Space Salon, and in 1992 at the Moscow Aviation Exhibition "Mosaero Show "A full-scale model of a helicopter was presented for the first time. In 1993, the Kazan Helicopter Plant began manufacturing two experimental helicopters; the first flight of the experimental helicopter was planned for 1995, but due to financial difficulties it was postponed first to 1996 and then to 1998, so in 1995 only a modified model of the Mi-38 helicopter was demonstrated at MAKS-95 .
The “Program for the Development of Civil Aviation until 2000” adopted by the Russian government provided for the start of serial production of Mi-38 helicopters in 1996, and the first deliveries in 1999; within 10 years it was planned to produce about 1000 helicopters, but in the future the start of production and delivery dates were shifted to 2000, and the production program was reduced to 400 helicopters, of which 300 will be intended for the CIS countries. To support the Mi-38 helicopter program, in 1990, the Moscow Helicopter Plant began negotiations with the Eurocopter concern, which resulted in the creation of the Euromil joint venture in 1994, which included the Moscow Helicopter Plant named after. M.L. Mil, the Eurocopter concern, the Kazan Helicopter Plant and the St. Petersburg NPO named after. V.Ya. Klimov, each owning 25% of the shares, and the Eurocopter concern is responsible for equipping the helicopter with equipment and international certification.
The Mi-38 helicopter is designed as a next-generation helicopter, which should exceed the Mi-8 helicopter in transport performance and fuel efficiency by two to three times and be distinguished by increased safety and operation due to greater reliability of the main units, increased power supply, redundancy of the main systems and the use of advanced equipment.
Initially, the TV7-117V GDD with a takeoff power of 1690 kW/2300 hp was selected for the helicopter. With. and VD-100 APU, intended for the new Il-114 passenger aircraft, but later it was decided to install more advanced TVD-300 engines with a take-off power of 1535 kW/2500 hp. With. and short-term emergency power of 2750 kW/3750 hp. pp., which should ensure safe operation of the helicopter not only in flight, but also during takeoff and landing, maintaining flight characteristics in a wide range of temperatures, altitudes and take-off weights and great potential for modernizing the helicopter. Thanks to this, the maximum design take-off weight was increased from 14,750 to 15,600 kg, and the maximum weight of the transported load in the cabin and on the external sling was increased to 6,000 kg, which will allow Mi-38 helicopters to replace Mi-6 helicopters in some cases (by crane - installation and transport operations).
When designing and subsequent mass production of a helicopter, the latest technical and technological solutions must be used to ensure the creation of structures with minimal weight, which will increase the share of payload to 42% at normal take-off weight and to 47% at maximum. The structural weight of the Mi-38 helicopter will be 3.5 times less than that of the Mi-6, with a transportable load of 6 tons under the same conditions.
During the development of the helicopter, a large amount of research was carried out at TsAGI on improving the aerodynamics of the main rotor and airframe of the helicopter and optimizing the geometry of the main and tail rotor blades, at CIAM - on optimizing the power plant, at VIAM and NIAT - on the use of composite materials and new technological processes, and in GosNII GA - to optimize equipment for the flight deck and cargo compartment to ensure low operating costs.
The helicopter will be able to operate in various climatic conditions, for which it will be equipped with a set of replaceable on-board equipment. To ensure operation over water, the helicopter will be designed to allow landing on water, and will be equipped with removable inflatable balloons, as well as life-saving equipment (raft and vests).
The Mi-38 helicopter is planned to be produced in the following versions:
transport - for civil and water use with a load capacity of up to 6 tons with internal or external load placement;
passenger - for carrying 30 passengers or increased comfort with a cabin for eight passengers and four flight attendants;
sanitary - for transporting six patients on stretchers and four on seats, accompanied by four medical workers;
air surveillance and reconnaissance.
DESIGN. The helicopter is made according to a single-rotor design with a tail rotor, two RTDs and a tricycle landing gear. The helicopter's layout is optimized to reduce harmful drag and provide better operating conditions. Thanks to the use of improved aerodynamic contours of the fuselage and power plant fairing, cowling of the main rotor hub and swashplate, retraction of the landing gear and the use of the suction effect of engine exhaust jets, harmful drag has been reduced by 1.5 times compared to the Mi-8 helicopter.
Composite materials and three-layer panels with outer metal and inner plastic cladding with honeycomb core are widely used in the fuselage structure, which made it possible to reduce the number of frames, stringers and butt joints by 3 times compared to a conventional frame structure.
The double crew cabin has an improved layout using the latest radio electronics and is separated from the cargo compartment by a radio equipment compartment.
Cargo compartment dimensions 8.7 x 2.4 x 1.85 m with a volume of 29.5 m? larger than on the Mi-8, it has a large sliding door measuring 1.45 x 1.68 m on the left side, a rear cargo hatch with a 1.8 m wide cargo ramp and large rectangular windows. In the main transport version, the cabin has 32 easily removable seats, while the passenger version has 30 seats with luggage racks, a toilet, a wardrobe, a buffet and a luggage room.
The fuselage smoothly transitions into a tail boom of a monocoque structure, made of CM using the spiral winding method and having only two butt frames. A 2.7 m controlled stabilizer and a keel with a tail rotor bent to the right are installed on the beam.
The chassis is tricycle, retractable, with twin wheels on the main supports with low-pressure pneumatics. The nose gear is retracted into a compartment under the cabin floor, and the main supports are retracted into fairings on the sides of the fuselage. The chassis track is 3.3 m, the chassis base is 6.61 m.
The main rotor is the same diameter as on the Mi-8, but six-bladed, with hinged blades; the main rotor hub has spherical elastomeric bearings and hydraulic dampers. The blades, made entirely of CM, have a chord of 0.52 m, large nonlinear twist, variable profiles along the length and swept tips. Experimental studies of main rotor models conducted at TsAGI showed that the efficiency of the main rotor in hover mode is 0.75 while maintaining high load-bearing capacity when flying at high speed and during maneuvers. The peripheral speed of the blade tips is 215 m/s.
The tail rotor with a diameter of 3.84 m, four-bladed, with X-shaped blades, consists of two two-bladed propellers with blades with a chord of 0.28 m, made of CM, and a sleeve with elastomeric and metal fluoroplastic bearings. The peripheral speed of the blade tips is 215 m/s.
The power plant consists of two TVD-300 turboshaft engines with a take-off power of 1840 kW/2500 hp each. s., installed side by side on top of the fuselage behind the main rotor gearbox, with air intakes located on the sides of the fairing and equipped with a PZU. The front part of the fairing houses the VD-100 APU and units of hydraulic, electrical and other systems.
TVD-300 has a modular design with two stages of centrifugal compressors and a four-stage turbine and is characterized by a low specific fuel consumption of 0.279 kg/kWh/0.205 kg/l. s.-h. The take-off power of the helicopter engine is 1840 kW/2500 hp. s., maximum continuous power 1545 kW/2100 l. s., extreme power developed within 30 minutes – 2133 kW/2900 l. s., 2 min – 2648 kW/3600 l. With. and 30 s – 2758 kW/3750 l. With. Engine length 1.545 m, width 0.69 m, height 0.98 m.
The fuel system consists of two subsystems that provide independent power to each engine with uniform fuel production and the possibility of automatic cross-feeding.
The fuel is contained in six soft fuel tanks with a total capacity of 3,796 liters under the cabin floor. Installation of PTB is possible. It is assumed that liquefied gas will be used as fuel.
The transmission is characterized by reduced dimensions and weight. The main gearbox is four-stage, made according to a multi-flow scheme, as on the Mi-26, equipped with a drive box that ensures that the helicopter is prepared for flight driven by the APU, the rotation speed of the engine input shafts is 15,700 rpm, the rotor shaft is 195 rpm.
The control system is booster, with triple redundancy, and the addition of control signals is carried out in the pre-booster non-power part, and the total movements are output to the two-chamber hydraulic boosters, transmitted directly to the non-rotating swashplate, which has made it possible to significantly reduce the size and weight of the control system. The control system operates from three independent hydraulic systems, even if two of them fail.
The AC electrical system is powered by three independent generators, and the DC system is powered by two batteries and a converter.
New generation equipment for the Mi-38 helicopter includes:
– display system in the cockpit on five color displays;
– digital redundant autopilot with sensors;
– digital automated engine control system;
– a system for collecting and processing data on the operation of on-board systems;
– on-board control system and equipment;
– modern radio communication equipment.
Navigation equipment includes an autonomous navigation system with a Doppler speed meter, an airspeed parameter system and a strapdown heading system, a long-range navigation radio system and a satellite navigation system, a weather navigation radar, an automatic radio compass and a landing heading and glide path system.
Loading and unloading equipment includes a side door boom and an electric winch with a set of pulleys, removable roller tracks on the cargo floor and a cargo ramp with remote hydraulic control; a system for measuring mass and alignment, and an on-board television installation for monitoring the movement of cargo on an external sling are provided.
For export versions of the helicopter, the cockpit equipment, electronic systems and passenger cabin interior are developed by Eurocopter.
Characteristics of the Mi-38 helicopter
Dimensions, m:
helicopter length without propellers 19.95
helicopter height 5.13
helicopter width 4.9
main rotor diameter 21.1
swept area, m? 350
Engines: 2 GTD TVD-300
take-off power, kW/l. With. 2x1840/2 x 2500 emergency power in case of failure of one engine, kW/l. With. 2758/3750
Weights and loads, kg:
maximum takeoff 15,600
normal 14 200
empty helicopter 8300
in the fuselage and on the external sling 6000
Flight data:
maximum speed, km/h 290
maximum cruising speed, km/h 275
flight range at maximum take-off weight and full fuel tank filling with ANZ for 0.5 hours and with a load of 3500 kg, 800 km
flight range with maximum
load, km 325
static ceiling at normal
take-off weight in MCA conditions, m 2500
dynamic ceiling, m 5200
Mi-38 is a Russian medium multi-purpose helicopter developed at the Mil Design Bureau in the early 2000s.
History of the Mi-38
The mid-1980s can be noted as the beginning of a new wave of development of helicopter technology. First of all, this can be associated with the emergence of many new models of European helicopters, which, although they did not have anything revolutionary in them, were, nevertheless, very effective.
In the USSR, by that time, the main workhorse of aviators, the helicopter, was already beginning to become obsolete. In addition, the Kazan Helicopter Plant already had developments on a potentially new model. In 1981, the Mil Design Bureau began working closely on a new helicopter, which was created not only for the domestic market, but also for wide export according to all international standards. Already in 1989, the model was presented at the Le Bourget Air Show under the name Mi-38. In 1993, the production of prototypes began, and people saw a full-size mockup at the MAKS-95 air show. However, along with the collapse of the USSR, the project lost the order, funding and developed slowly, practically due to the enthusiasm of the participants.
In the early 2000s, interest in the car resumed. The state program “Mi-38 Helicopter” was initiated and work continued more actively both at the Mil Design Bureau and at the Kazan Helicopter Plant, where it is planned to launch production.
Already in 2003, the first prototype of the Mi-38, designated OP-1, made a test flight.
In 2010, the second prototype, OP-2, made its first long-distance flight. The Mi-38-OP-2 helicopter is equipped with PW127TS turboshaft engines manufactured by Pratt & Whitney Canada, as well as a modern IBKO-38 avionics complex manufactured by Transas Aviation, which implements the “glass cockpit” concept.
In May 2013, the third prototype OP-3 was assembled, equipped with new Russian TV7-117V engines manufactured by the company named after. Klimova. Test flights began successfully on November 12, 2013.
The fourth prototype of the Mi-38 helicopter manufactured at the Kazan Helicopter Plant is the latest pre-production aircraft of this model. It made its first flight on October 16, 2014. OP-4 differs from OP-3 in its impact-resistant fuel system from Aerazur and enlarged windows. During the tests OP-3 and OP-4 it is expected to obtain the final data required for certification and start of production and commercial operation of the Mi-38. On October 20, 2014, OP-4 was sent for flight testing.
In 2016, the Mi-38 helicopter received a type certificate from the Federal Air Transport Agency.
Mi-38 design
The Mi-38 is made according to the classical design with a 6-bladed main rotor with a controlled pitch and a 4-bladed X-shaped tail rotor and a controlled stabilizer. The blades are made of fiberglass, which makes them lighter and more durable.
The semi-monocoque fuselage is made of duralumin. Some elements: the nose cone, cockpit panels, engine hoods and some others are made of multilayer composites.
In the nose, under the radio-transparent fairing, there is a weather radar.
The helicopter's chassis is energy-absorbing and can withstand impact without igniting fuel when falling from a height of 15 meters.
The location of two engines behind the gearbox made it possible to improve the aerodynamics and performance characteristics of the helicopter.
The helicopter is capable of carrying up to 6 tons of cargo inside the cabin and up to 7 tons on the external sling. On a helicopter, cargo is loaded using a ramp. The side doors are sliding, and a winch with a lifting capacity of 300 kg is installed on the starboard side.
The Mi-38 is equipped with a modern set of on-board equipment with a “glass cockpit” interface for two pilots.
The main propulsion system consists of two Klimov TV7-117V turboshaft engines with a shaft power of 1,753 kW (2,350 hp), an option with PW127TS engines from Pratt & Whitney Canada with a power of 2,500 hp was previously developed. With.
Video of the Mi-38 demonstration flight at the MAKS-2013 air show
Operation of the Mi-38
Several variants of the helicopter have been developed, including military auxiliary and special, passenger for 32 passengers, specialized cargo (with the ability to transport cargo on an external cable sling), ambulance and aerial surveillance version.
The start of serial production of the helicopter in Kazan is scheduled for 2015. The Kazan Helicopter Plant is actively preparing for serial production of the Mi-38, and the fuselage of the first serial Mi-38 has been laid. In August 2015, at MAKS-2015, a contract was signed with the United Engine Corporation for the supply of 50 TV7-117V engines until 2019 (for 25 vehicles - two engines per unit).
The certificate for the standard design of the Mi-38 medium transport helicopter was issued by the Federal Air Transport Agency on December 30, 2015. It is expected that the passenger version of the helicopter will be certified in 2017, and in the future modifications for search and rescue and offshore operations will be created and certified.
World records
- At the XIV Helicopter Sports Championship, held from August 22 to 26, 2012 at the Drakino airfield near Moscow, test pilots of the Moscow Helicopter Plant named after. Mil on the Mi-38 overcame the altitude bar of 8600 meters and set a new world altitude record for helicopters, as well as a record for rate of climb without load at an altitude of 3000 m in 6 minutes in the E-1h class (FAI category for helicopters with take-off weight from 10 to 20 tons). The record was broken on August 15, 2013 by a Mi-8MSB helicopter with TV3-117VMA-SBM1V 4E series engines, which rose to a height of 9150 meters
- September 10, 2012 at the airfield of OJSC Moscow Helicopter Plant named after. M.L. Mil" helicopter set a record for lifting a commercial cargo of 1000 kg to an altitude of 8000 m.
- Record for lifting a load of 2000 kg to a height of 7020 m.
When listing the legends of the domestic engineering design school, experts will definitely mention three very different designs that are united by their amazing longevity. The Kalashnikov assault rifle was put into service back in 1949, but still remains one of the most popular “products” on the world arms market. The famous R-7 Korolev launched the first Sputnik into space in 1957, and today its later modification remains the world’s only means of delivering people into orbit. The multi-purpose medium helicopter Mi-8 made its first flight in 1961, but its latest modifications are still readily purchased by both Russian and foreign customers. In total, more than 13,000 helicopters of the Mi-8 family were produced. They are used in more than 100 countries, that is, in half of the countries on Earth.
And yet time takes its toll. They started thinking about replacing the long-standing bestseller of the global helicopter market back in the USSR, when they began developing the Mi-38 project in 1981. Alas, perestroika, the collapse of the country and the subsequent confusion in the economy delayed the implementation of this project for decades, and only on December 30, 2015, a significant event occurred: the Mi-38 received a certificate from the Federal Air Transport Agency, which opens its way to the skies. Of course, the new “workhorse” of the domestic helicopter industry, with many of whose enterprises VTB Bank is actively cooperating, will be primarily purchased by government customers. What are the market prospects for the new car? Does it have advantages compared to foreign analogues, and most importantly, how competitive will it be next to the Mi-8, which, it seems, is not going to lose ground.
Size matters
One of the secrets of the long-term success of the Mi-8 is that it was immediately designed with a reserve, as if to “grow” the tasks that a middle-class helicopter should solve. For example, the first version of the Mi-8 took off with one engine and its photographs now look as unusual as a portrait of a Cyclops. It is unlikely that the “one-eyed” Mi-8 would have been able to become a global superstar, but its creators came to their senses in time, and in the final form there were two engines. As a result, the car has still not lost its advantages in carrying capacity, passenger capacity and internal volume compared to its Western classmates. Based on this experience, the creators of the Mi-38 decided from the very beginning to make a large and spacious twin-engine helicopter. The only question was with what factor to “scale” the very successful Mi-8 concept.
The carrying capacity of the Mi-38 is 5000 kg. And on an external sling it lifts 6000 kg into the sky. It can carry 30 passengers on board. For comparison: the carrying capacity of the Mi-8 is 4000 kg and 26 passengers. However, up to 36 paratroopers can be packed into it. It is important that passengers in the Mi-38 are seated in seats with a pitch of 75 cm, as in the cabin of a regular economy class airliner. Not only is there a toilet, something the Mi-8 cannot boast of, but even a buffet. After all, the cabin volume of the Mi-38 is 29.5 m3, while the Mi-8 is no more than 27 m3.
The only twin-engine competitor to the Mi-38 on the modern market is the French Airbus Helicopters H225 with a payload of up to 5500 kg. But at the same time, the useful volume of its “hold” is only 15 m3, almost half as much.
I would like to emphasize that the Mi-38 is not just a Mi-8 multiplied by 1.25. The new helicopter is created taking into account modern international requirements: with a fireproof fuel system, with large windows that can be used as emergency exits, with an energy-absorbing chassis that ensures a safe fall from a height of 15 m. The Mi-38 not only carries more passengers, but also provides them with better comfort. Those who have flown on the Mi-8 know that vibrations and noise during flight are such that especially careful airlines provide passengers with special headphones, as in industries with a high level of acoustic exposure. On the Mi-38, thanks to a different engine location (behind the main gearbox, not in front of it), the use of elastomeric bearings in the propeller hub and a more advanced transmission, much less noise and vibration occurs.
Powerlifting
The Mi-38 looks more than worthy when lifting heavy objects. According to the Russian classification, it is considered medium, because we have such a giant as the Mi-26 flying with a carrying capacity of 20 tons. As for helicopters that are called medium in the West, their carrying capacity is limited to 2-3 tons and compared to the Mi-38 they look like a route taxi next to the intercity bus.
However, the point is not in the classification, but in real capabilities, and of course, there are helicopters in the world that can lift no less weight from the ground than the Mi-38, even if they are considered heavy. This is, for example, Italian-British AgustaWestland AW101. But to lift 5400 kg into the sky (on an external sling), it needs three engines.
A curious situation has developed with American helicopters. An excellent medium-class (by Russian standards) military transport helicopter, the Sikorsky CH-53 Sea Stallion, has flown and continues to fly in the United States. However, it is so expensive that it was never even offered for commercial use, and its modern modification, the Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion, received a third engine and, with a payload of 13.5 tons, finally moved into the class of full-fledged heavy helicopters. As for the middle class itself, in America today it is represented by the Sikorsky S-92 with a carrying capacity of ... 1860 kg.
It turns out that the only twin-engine competitor to the Mi-38 on the modern market is the French Airbus Helicopters H225 with a payload capacity of up to 5500 kg. But at the same time, the useful volume of its “hold”, even in military transport version, is only 15 m3, almost two times less than that of the Mi-38. In general, there is no one to put next to the Mi-38. Except for the Mi-8, of course.
In recent years, the Mi-38 has been a constant participant in the MAKS air shows, the general sponsor of which has been VTB Bank for several years. But when will the most promising new product in the domestic helicopter industry become as common a sight in the sky as its predecessor, the Mi-8? What are the market prospects for the new helicopter? What are its advantages and does it have disadvantages?
Twin-core
The capabilities that Western competitors often achieve only with a three-engine design are achieved by the Mi-38 with the help of two engines. At one stage of the project’s development, it was assumed that the American-Canadian PW127TS from Pratt & Whitney Canada would be installed on this helicopter. However, Western partners withdrew from the project. Therefore, for the new Mi, a helicopter version of the domestic TV7-117 gas turbine engines developed by the St. Petersburg Design Bureau was developed. V.Ya. Klimov, originally intended for the Il-114 local airline aircraft. The uniqueness of this development is that with a rated power of 2500 hp. this engine in emergency mode can develop 3750 hp, that is, one and a half times more, which makes it possible to safely continue takeoff if one of the engines fails. A similar reserve of power and reliability on helicopters of foreign competitors is provided only by a three-engine configuration.
TV7-117 is a new generation engine compared to TV3-117 (2000 hp and 2200 hp in emergency mode) installed on the Mi-8. Although, oddly enough, this also hides certain risks. For example, due to the fact that developed in the 1970s by the same Design Bureau named after. V.Ya. Klimov TV3-117 has a gas temperature of only 1265 °K; its turbine blades do not need cooling, unlike TV7-117 blades. Meanwhile, the blade cooling system, which is a network of narrow channels in its body through which cold air from the compressor passes, is especially sensitive to dust and quickly becomes clogged with deposits. But a helicopter operates up to 30% of its time in high dust conditions due to the proximity of the ground. This is precisely one of the secrets of the Mi-8’s survivability in desert conditions, which makes it practically irreplaceable in countries with hot climates.
However, the air intakes of the Mi-38 engines will be equipped with new generation dust protection devices. They are expected to provide the same level of reliability in challenging environments. However, the Mi-8 engines still have advantages in terms of service life: production of the TV3-117 was organized in Zaporozhye (Ukraine) back in Soviet times, and over several decades its design was brought to perfection. TV7-117 still has a long way to go in terms of fine-tuning and improvement. But in terms of efficiency, TV7-117 engines are at the modern level: 0.2 kg/(hp x h) versus 0.23 kg/(hp x h) for the TV3-117. This means that the Mi-38 will be of interest not only to buyers living in the desert.
Two powerful engines allow the heavier Mi-38 to flutter with enviable ease. For example, its cruising speed is 290 km/h versus 225-240 km/h for various modifications of the Mi-8. At the same time, the maximum speed of the Mi-38 can reach 320 km/h. Even the fastest of the same type of machines - the three-engine AgustaWestland AW101 (cruising speed 278 km/h and maximum speed - 309 km/h) - does not reach these values, and other “equal-sized” helicopters are noticeably inferior to the Mi-38 in this parameter.
A very significant parameter is the practical ceiling (especially for countries like India, where the ability to work in the mountains is a prerequisite for purchased aircraft). The Mi-38 can rise to 5900 m. This is perhaps the only parameter in which the new Russian helicopter has not surpassed the Mi-8, whose service ceiling is 6000 m. Of its Western analogues, only Airbus Helicopters H225. However, we must not forget that the Mi-38 with domestic engines took off for the first time only on November 12, 2013, and there is no doubt that its capabilities will continue to grow.
The Mi-38 set a world altitude record among helicopters with a take-off weight of 10 to 20 tons - 8600 m. Such machines usually do not appear at such an altitude, and the crews of aircraft flying past reported to dispatchers that they were observing some kind of “crazy helicopter” nearby.
On August 26, 2012, the Mi-38 (with Canadian engines) set a world altitude record among helicopters with a take-off weight from 10 to 20 tons - 8600 m. Such machines usually do not appear at such an altitude, and the crews of aircraft flying past reported to dispatchers that they were observing nearby some kind of “crazy helicopter”. A year later, however, the Ukrainian Mi-8MSB with the latest modification of the TV3-117 engine surpassed this achievement, rising to a height of 9150 m, which once again emphasizes that the main competitor of the Mi-38 remains the veteran Mi-8. However, the record for lifting with a load of 1000 kg at 8000 m still remains with the Mi-38.
These records clearly demonstrated the potential of the new car. The TV7-117 is not inferior in power to Pratt & Whitney engines, and high flight performance is achieved not only due to horsepower, but also due to new rotors made entirely of composite materials. Their service life is equal to the service life of the entire helicopter, and the new profile of the blades allows not only to fly at higher speeds, but also reduces the level of noise and vibration.
However, speed for a transport helicopter is not the main thing. The range is much more significant, especially in the now popular offshore version for servicing offshore platforms. It is this parameter that reflects the efficiency of its engines, the weight perfection of the design, the aerodynamic nobility, and the advantages of the layout. The maximum ferry range of the Mi-38 is 1200 km. For the Mi-8 this parameter does not exceed 800 km. The AgustaWestland AW101 will fly no more than 1,129 km from takeoff to landing, while the Airbus Helicopters H225 will fly no more than 1,135 km.
Let's talk about money
One of the most significant competitive advantages of the Mi-8 has always been the price, starting at $14.75 million, while Western analogues could not be purchased for less than 20 million. The creators of the Mi-38 promise to keep the price tag at $17 million, which seems to be an excellent alternative given the great capabilities of the new product. After all, according to calculations, at a range of 800 km, the cost per ton-kilometer on the Mi-38 will be 7 times lower than that of the Mi-8!
No less important is how much it costs the owner to operate the car. For example, the Mi-8, like almost all foreign analogues, requires a crew of at least 2 people. Thanks to the new navigation system, built-in system diagnostics and a “glass” cockpit (made domestically, by the way), the Mi-38 can be piloted by one person.
The Mi-38 has the ability to be stored without a hangar. A powerful anti-icing system allows you to operate the machine at temperatures down to -50 °C. Upper limit +60 °C.
The TV7-117 engine is made according to a modular principle, that is, it can be repaired by replacing blocks in the field. Fiberglass main rotor blades do not need to be replaced at all during the entire life cycle, unlike the metal blades of the Mi-8. In terms of labor intensity of maintenance, the Mi-38 and Mi-8 are like a typewriter and a laser printer. The cost of an hour of operation of the Mi-38 will be one and a half times less than the Mi-8.
However, the Mi-8 is not resting on its laurels either. Its latest Russian modification, the Mi-171A2, received new domestic VK-2500 engines, the same latest electronics and composite blades. In short, a potential buyer will have plenty to choose from.
The Mi-38 will be a unique offer on the market, with which, by and large, there is nothing comparable in the world. There is no other helicopter in which all parameters would be at the extreme limit for this class. At the same time, it significantly exceeds Western competitors in terms of cargo compartment volume. Is this enough to justify in the eyes of the customer the higher cost compared to the Mi-8? Certainly. Especially considering the fact that compared to Western offers the price will still be very attractive. But provided that the new helicopter with all its advantages will work as flawlessly as a Kalashnikov assault rifle. And there is still work to be done on this. It is necessary to confirm high performance with actual operation. The Mi-38 certificate has so far been issued only for cargo transportation at speeds up to 250 km/h. Work ahead is to expand the range of operating conditions, certification of the passenger, ambulance and search and rescue versions. Only after this the Mi-38 will become a helicopter for all occasions. But the foundation for future success has already been laid: in fact, there is no analogue to this technology in the world.
Characteristics of the Mi-38
Maximum take-off weight 16,200 kg
Load capacity 6000 kg
Passenger capacity 30
Cabin volume 29.5 m3
Engine power at takeoff mode is 2×2500 hp.
Engine power in emergency mode 2×3750 hp.
Cruising speed 290 km/h
Maximum speed 320 km/h
Service ceiling 5900 m
Flight range 1200 km
Characteristics of Airbus Helicopters H225
Maximum take-off weight 11,200 kg
Load capacity 5457 kg
Passenger capacity 24 (chair option - 19)
Cabin volume 15 m3
Engine power at takeoff n/a
Engine power in emergency mode 2×2382 hp.
Cruising speed 262 km/h
Maximum speed 275 km/h
Service ceiling 6095 m
Flight range 1135 km
The Russian Ministry of Defense will become the first customer of the new medium multi-purpose helicopter Mi-38. The department, together with the Russian Helicopters holding company, decided on the procedure and timing for the delivery of the Mi-38 to the Russian Aerospace Forces. The machine will be produced at the Kazan Helicopter Plant. The first fuselage of the production Mi-38 has already been assembled there.
“We are aware of the need for independence of our products from foreign supplies of components and assemblies. In this regard, we are working to ensure maximum import substitution in the production of helicopter equipment, which is supplied to the Ministry of Defense as part of the state defense order,” noted General Director of Russian Helicopters Alexander Mikheev.
The Mi-38 will be used to transport cargo and passengers, and will be used as a search and rescue helicopter and a “flying hospital.”
AiF.ru talks about what the Mi-38 helicopter is.
Mi-38 is a Russian medium multi-purpose helicopter.
Specifications
Capacity
· Crew: 2 people.
· Passengers: 30 people. (step 75 cm).
Main rotor diameter: 21.1 m.
· Tail rotor diameter: 3.84 m.
· Length with rotation screws: 25 m.
· Fuselage length: 19.95 m.
· Fuselage width: 4.5 m.
· Height with rotation. screws: 6.98 m.
· Empty: 8300 kg.
· Normal take-off: 14,200 kg.
· Max. takeoff: 15,600 kg.
· Max. payload on external sling: 6000 kg.
· Max. payload in transport cabin: 5000 kg.
Power point
· TV7-117V engines.
· Take-off power: 2500 hp. With.
· Power in emergency mode: 3500 l. With.
Flight performance
· Cruising speed: 295 km/h.
· Max. speed: 320 km/h.
· Flight range: 1300 km.
· Max. flight range with main tanks and payload of 3300 kg: 900 km.
· Service ceiling: 5100 m.
· Static ceiling outside the influence of the earth: 3100 m.
Interior dimensions
· Length: 8700 mm.
· Width: 2340 mm.
· Height: 1800 mm.
· Volume: 29.5 m³.
Peculiarities
The Mi-38 is considered one of the most highly automated civil helicopters in the world. The flight navigation system allows you to perform automatic route flight, landing, hovering and stabilization in any flight mode.
The integrated complex of on-board equipment IBKO-38 installed on the Mi-38 provides the crew with information in a volume and quality that ensures a high level of flight safety.
The Mi-38 is equipped with new highly economical domestically produced TV7-117V engines and an integrated digital flight navigation system with data display on five LCD displays. The vehicle uses composite materials, including in the main and tail rotors.
At the same time, the transport version of the Mi-38 allows you to increase functionality and expand the scope of its application, creating specialized versions, including an “Arctic” version of the helicopter.
