More specifically, Boeing refer to these as Advanced Technology winglets, or AT winglets for short.
Over the current technology winglets, Boeing say AT gives a 1.5% fuel burn efficiency whilst also providing more lift. This extra lift component is vectored away from the fuselage, effectively creating more lift whilst not actually lengthening the wingspan horizontally.
This is important, as wingspan is something you want to keep to a minimum when it comes to airport infrastructure, and also of course not having to design, test and mass-produce a whole new elongated wing which would be costly.
As you can see compared to no winglets and the blended winglets, AT’s lift generation is further spread out over the length of the wing, which creates better balance and reduces drag. Thus, the extra fuel efficiency.
And along with all winglet designs, and mainly their entire concept revolves around, they reduce tip vortices in which these add drag and produce wake turbulence for aircraft behind.
By – Leo Bruce
Additional Details
The purpose of the split winglets on the 737 Max is to improve the aerodynamics of the aircraft, which helps to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. These winglets are designed to direct the airflow around the wing in a way that creates less drag, which in turn allows the aircraft to fly more efficiently. Additionally, the split design of the winglets also helps to reduce the amount of weight on the aircraft, which further improves its performance. Overall, the split winglets are a key component of the 737 Max’s design that helps to make it one of the most fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly aircraft in its class.
Enhanced Efficiency: The split winglets on the 737 Max are an evolution of the blended winglets found on previous 737 models. They feature a distinctive split design where the upper part of the winglet is angled upward, while the lower part is angled downward. This design helps to optimize the airflow and reduce drag, resulting in improved fuel efficiency. The reduced drag also allows the aircraft to fly at higher speeds while consuming less fuel.
Wingtip Vortex Reduction: One of the primary functions of winglets is to mitigate the creation of wingtip vortices. Wingtip vortices are swirling air masses that form at the tips of wings due to the pressure difference between the upper and lower surfaces of the wing. These vortices create drag, which decreases the overall efficiency of the aircraft. The split winglets on the 737 Max help to disrupt and minimize the formation of these vortices, reducing drag and increasing fuel efficiency.
Increased Lift: The split winglets on the 737 Max also contribute to increased lift, which enhances the aircraft’s performance during takeoff and landing. By optimizing the airflow around the wingtips, the winglets help to generate additional lift, allowing the aircraft to operate more efficiently at lower speeds and improving its overall maneuverability.
Structural Considerations: Apart from aerodynamic benefits, the split winglets also offer structural advantages. By extending the wingspan, they help distribute the load more evenly across the wings, reducing stress and improving the overall structural integrity of the aircraft. This structural optimization contributes to the 737 Max’s improved performance and safety.
Commonality with Previous Models: The split winglets on the 737 Max were designed to be compatible with existing 737 models, allowing airlines to incorporate the new winglet design without significant modifications to their fleets. This commonality simplifies the transition for airlines and reduces maintenance and training costs.
It’s important to note that while the 737 Max initially featured split winglets, Boeing introduced an updated design called the Advanced Technology Winglet (AT Winglet) for the later variants of the aircraft. The AT Winglet is a single piece and provides further aerodynamic improvements over the split winglet design.
Overall, the split winglets on the 737 Max play a crucial role in enhancing fuel efficiency, reducing drag, increasing lift, and improving the overall performance of the aircraft.
By – Aeropeep Team
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