Project set to develop composite helicopter wheel

Co-funded by Innovate UK, the 18-month NATEP project is being delivered in partnership with the National Composites Centre and collaboration with Leonardo.

Funding boost for weight-saving composite wheels

According to the team, the global market for helicopter wheels uses metallic light-alloy materials, usually aluminium or magnesium, that offer sufficient strength and stiffness at relatively low density.

A wheel made of CFRP will offer significantly enhanced mechanical properties at approximately half the density of metallic wheels. Compared to aluminium alloys, a CFRP wheel will be lighter, with higher performance and an extended working life.

The fibrous microstructure and resin stability of advanced composites mean that fatigue life and corrosion resistance can be much improved when optimally designed. They also offer weight savings of around 30-40 per cent over forged aluminium and improved NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) performance.

It is anticipated that weight reductions will allow airframers to deliver efficiency, range and payload improvements whilst providing an option for propulsion systems such as battery-electric. Composite wheels will also be interchangeable with existing wheels, making them suitable for retrofit.