C-5 Galaxy undergoes dynamic runway testing

As part of the C-5’s Reliability Enhancement and Re-Engining Program, the C-5 Galaxy is undergoing dynamic taxi testing to check the structural strength and flexibility of the four-engine modification.

The main focus of the testing was the C-5 structure’s movement when traveling over rougher surfaces with its new engines and pylons.

When the C-5 was developed, it featured the first-generation high bypass turbo fan engine, the TF-39. The new engine is a third-generation high bypass turbo fan engine, the CF6, which produces 20 percent more thrust and consumes less fuel than the TF-39s. Unlike the TF-39’s mechanical control, the CF6 responds to throttle commands via a digital computer. The CF6’s increased fuel efficiency allows more cargo to be carried over a given route since less fuel is required to make the trip.

“We are looking at the entire aircraft with these new engines,” said Jessica Wojtanowski, 418th Flight Test Squadron Detachment 4 flight test engineer. “We are trying to prove that the new engines won’t negatively affect the structural modes of the airplane.”

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