INVESTIGATION OF STEADY AND DYNAMIC STRESSES IN THE AH-64 PRIMARY EXHAUST NOZZLE

This paper summarizes the results of an analytical and experimental procedure used to study the AH-64 primary exhaust nozzle. The procedure used was a series of laboratory, hanger and flight tests to evaluate the nozzle dynamic characteristics. Evaluation of the static and dynamic stress environments are discussed. Through an effective integration of various types of static, dynamic, and temperature test data with a finite element model of the nozzle, the contributors which affect the nozzle fatigue life were identified. A number of design modifications have been proposed which should substantially increase the fatigue life of the nozzles.