LORD Corporation, a leader in the management of vibration, noise and motion control, has announced the award of an Active Vibration Control System (AVCS) development contract with Korea Aerospace Industries, LTD. (KAI) for the Light Civilian Helicopter (LCH) and its variants.

LORD will provide technical support for AVCS system development for this new aircraft and will manufacture and supply AVCS components in the future. The AVCS technology operates through the use of accelerometers that measure aircraft vibration levels. Signals are sent to a centralized computer that runs a software algorithm that interprets the data and sends commands to force generators which are strategically located throughout the aircraft. These force generators create “anti-vibration” that stops the progression of vibration from the main rotor resulting in lower aircraft vibration levels and smoother ride.

KAI selected LORD as the active vibration control supplier on the LCH in late 2015. Bill Cerami, president, LORD Aerospace and Defense, stated that the company is thrilled to work with KAI on this high-profile program. “Our technical support will enable this program to be a success. Our equipment is qualified and ready for use on this new KAI platform,” said Cerami. 

According to Bernie Chan, marketing and sales director for LORD Aerospace & Defense in Asia, LORD Corporation's AVCS has proven to reduce vibration in the helicopter fuselage generated by the main rotor. “Our AVCS provides state-of-the-art, steady-state and transient vibration control,” said Chan. “As a vibration solution leader, we offer both turn-key AVCS, as well as AVCS components.”

KAI is targeting 2020 for first fielding on the LCH and 2022 for the armed variant.