Aviation
Development of China's J-8 Fighter
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Development of China's J-8 Fighter
by Jon "Raytracer" Lee
Construction
The fuselage is of the conventional semi-monocoque type, with a stressed aluminium alloy outer skin to bear the forces of bending, while a light internal frame provides support against compression. Such a set-up offers good strength while keeping weight down. The highest load bearing areas, and the wings are made from high-tensile steel, while titanium is used in the high-temperature leading edges. The rudders, ailerons, and elevators have an aluminium honeycomb internal structure, covered with aluminium sheeting. Areas requiring the easy passage of electromagnetic energy such as the nosecone, and fin-tip are made from a dielectric material. It is likely that composites will also feature prominently in future versions, if they don’t already in some late model builds.
Systems and Controls
Flight controls are through ailerons, rudders, and tailplanes, which are all boosted by two independent 207bar(3000Ibs/sq in) hydraulic systems that are powered by engine driven pumps. The J-8ACT uses servo actuators linked to a quad redundant Iron Bird FBW computer through Mil Std 1553B databuses.
The flaps are of the two-segment, single-slotted type, and are located inboard of the ailerons. There are four door-type airbrakes located under the fuselage, two under the air intake trunks, the other two aft of the main wheel well. A brake chute is available for additional stopping power, and is housed in a bullet fairing at the base of the rudder.
Two air conditioners are installed, one for the cockpit, the other for the radar. Power comes from the 28.5V DC primary electrical power circuit, which is powered by two engine-driven 12kW starter generators. Two 6kVA alternators are also installed for a 3-phase 115/200V AC supply at 400Hz. A pop-out ram air turbine is also available for emergency power supply.
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