Aerospace

We provide support for the entire test programme, including flight set specification design, oversight of flight execution and processing of flight test data.

We follow a systems engineering approach to space technology based on our multidisciplinary expertise in domains such as optronics, radar (including synthetic aperture radar), information warfare and custom payload development. Read more.

Our core capabilities in propulsion include cycle modelling, efficiency enhancement and life extension of turbines, supported by a range of specialised infrastructure. Beyond gas turbines or turbojet engines, our focus extends to new energy sources.

We undertake conceptual and detailed design, as well as aerodynamic characterisation of fixed- and rotary-winged aircraft. This is achieved through wind tunnel testing and computational methods such as high-fidelity, man-in-the-loop simulations. Design examples include gyrocopters, UAVs, light aircraft and gas turbine engines.

We develop robust simulation environments at various system levels and for various conditions. This includes mission level simulations for combat scenarios to model aircraft capabilities in operational and threat environments.

The CSIR is a leader in aeroelasticity technology and has cleared more than 200 aircraft configurations for the South African Air Force (SAAF), as well as for local and international clients since the 1970s. Over time, the CSIR has developed its own ground vibration test (GVT) systems and its own full suite of flutter clearance software. As the military demand decreased, the CSIR started serving the civilian market. Apart from a novel Controller Area Network bus-based GVT system, the CSIR developed smart support systems for ground vibration testing of light aircraft and in-flight excitation systems for flutter flight testing of light to supersonic aircraft.

A wide range of capabilities contribute to these complex technology integration processes, covering the full spectrum from specification to testing, analysis and qualification.

We have expert knowledge in evaluating the aerodynamic and mechanical impacts of integrating stores with aircraft. Our work includes aeroelasticity (flutter), store separation behaviour and the loads imposed on aircraft during carriage, as well as the impact on aircraft performance and handling characteristics. CSIR-developed tools, codes and testing facilities are used for store separation analysis.

Central to our experimental aerodynamics work is a suite of wind tunnels, covering a range from low-subsonic to supersonic speeds, along with associated analytical tools and models. We have developed unique aeroelasticity test rigs and technologies, including ground vibration testing tools for light aircraft and in-flight excitation systems for flutter flight testing of aircraft ranging from light to supersonic.