Lord Corporation’s Design Solution Results In Reduced Vibration And Noise For Cirrus Vision

In development by Cirrus Aircraft, the single-engine, low-wing, flexible 5+2 seats jet is being designed as a light-weight aircraft for personal use. Based on customer feedback, the design will enable longer solo trips, with a target range of 1000 nm (1,850 km) at a maximum cruise speed of 300 knots (556 km/h).

According to Kyle Zimmerman, Senior Engineer, Fixed Wing Engineering/Product Development for LORD Corporation, Cirrus wanted a system to mount the Williams turbofan engine that would give the SF50 a quieter, smoother and more comfortable ride. As such, controlling motion, vibration and noise were key to component design.

“LORD partnered with Cirrus engineers to find the most cost-effective design solution that would meet the specifications outlined by Cirrus,” said Zimmerman. “The chosen solution is a win-win for both LORD and Cirrus. It is built on our innovative design and expertise in engine attachment systems. Because of this collaboration, not only will the mount reduce noise and vibration induced by the engine on the aircraft, it is lighter than originally specified.”

According to Jerry Whiteford, LORD Technology Fellow, LORD Corporation’s design solution allowed for incorporation of both cost and weight savings on both the aircraft structure and the isolator system.

“Our engineers developed an approach that was very effective at integrating the structure with the isolator design, while permitting optimization on both components,” said Whiteford. “This approach resulted in an excellent isolation system with weight savings for both structures.”

The prototype aircraft was first shown publicly in June 2008 and first flown that July. Made of composite material, the aircraft will be equipped with a whole aircraft Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS)™ and powered by a single Williams FJ33-5A engine, producing 1,900 pounds-force (8,500 N) of thrust and is expected to cruise at about 300 knots (556 km/h).