Experimental investigation of laser Riblet application on a helicopter rotor blade

View Video Presentation: https://doi.org/10.2514/6.2023-3238.vid Helicopters, as Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) manufacturers, have long sought to improve their aerodynamic design so that their aircraft perform better. To this end, the application of microstructures, or “Riblets”, on helicopter rotor blades has been studied and investigated. This is due to their capability to reduce the viscous drag in the turbulent boundary layer on the rotor blade, resulting in improved aerodynamics. The rotor blade has a complex aerodynamic design, consisting of airfoils that are twisted and changed in chord length span-wise. As laser processing technology has become more accessible, the efficacy of using Riblets to further improve the rotor blade has become even more attractive. Research into the application of Laser Riblets on helicopter rotor blades has provided encouraging results. This paper aims to present an in-depth analysis of laser ablation technologies and their potential applications in various industries. It is essential to verify the resistance of these riblets to harsh environmental conditions, such as weathering. To this end, we have conducted several tests, including accelerated weathering, to evaluate the durability of the riblets. Through these tests, we aim to assess the longevity of the riblets and determine whether they can withstand extreme environments over extended periods.