The Boeing 777 has several unique design features that have made the aircraft type a favorite for most airlines. A lot of these unique design features, like the cabin design, aircraft size, avionics systems and the fuel efficient design, get numerous mentions. However, there is one key design feature that is usually sideline; the raked wingtip design. Today, let us give this ingenious design feature some well-deserved attention.
The raked wingtip has a sleek look to it. However, the beauty is not the primary inspiration for having the wingtips of the B777 raked instead of a winglet. The raked design implies that the wingtip is gently curved upwards or downwards instead of perpendicular to the wing as in the case of a wingtip. The raked design of this wingtip has proven greatly beneficial.
Primarily, the raked wingtip design reduces induced drag, which is drag produced courtesy of lift generation. Therefore, the raked wingtip design is essential in reducing the negative effect of lift generation, improving the aerodynamic performance of the wing.
Improved aerodynamic performance increases the fuel efficiency of the B777. Since the induced drag is low and lift is increased, the aircraft less fuel than to cover the same distance compared to other aircraft without the raked wingtip design. Consequently, the raked wingtip design makes the B777 economical to operate on a long flight, making the aircraft popular among long haul carriers.
Moreover, improved fuel efficiency bumps up the range of the B777. Since it requires less fuel, the B777 has a longer range than another aircraft that holds the same amount of fuel it has. For this reason, the B777 is an excellent aircraft type for any airline having long haul operations. Clearly, the raked wingtip design has an aerodynamic effect that has operational benefits that lead to other operational efficiencies.
Apart from the aerodynamic efficiency, the raked wingtip design is also predominantly essential for noise reduction in the B777. The raked wingtip design optimizes airflow around the wingtip. Therefore, the break of airflow interacting with the wing is smooth and less turbulent compared to wingtips that are not raked. The raked wingtips ensure that during takeoff and landing operations, airflow disturbances at the edges of the wings are reduced, reducing noise levels.
Raked wingtips also improve the structural integrity of the wing, ensuring that the wing can sustain the cyclic loads and stresses more effectively. The raked wingtips, therefore, also have a structural benefit as they are structurally stronger than other wingtips.
The raked wingtip of the Boeing 777 is a unique design feature that does not only add to the beauty of the aircraft but also improved the aerodynamic performance of the aircraft, increasing fuel efficiency, range, and structural integrity while reducing noise.
Aeropeep Team
