Twin-rotor hover performance examination using overlap tests

Abstract

PurposeThe aim of this paper was to experimentally examine twin-rotor hover performance for different rotor overlap ratios at practical rotor loading.Design/methodology/approachThe methodology was formed based on data measurements for a designed twin-rotor test model and development of hover performance mathematical models. Thus, measurements were made using a central composite test plan, and then mathematical models for thrust power required power loading (PL) and figure of merit (FM) as functions of collective pitch tip speed; rotor overlap ratio was obtained. In the present paper, the test model consisted of two three-bladed rotors with a diameter of 220 mm and a blade aspect ratio of 16.05. The blades were of a rectangular planform with NACA 0012 cross sections and had no twist or taper. The model was built such that the rear rotor was fixed on the fuselage, and the front rotor could move longitudinally for tests up to about 40 per cent overlap ratio in hover.FindingsThe best hover aerodynamic efficiency (maximum PL of 14.6 kg/kW) was achieved for non-overlapped rotors at a low value of disc loading (DL) and also at FM of 0.6 at that DL. This result was in agreement with blade element momentum theory predictions.Practical implicationsResults for the twin-rotor test model can be generalized for actual tandem helicopters through the Reynolds number transformation technique and also some modifications.Originality/valueDesign and construction of the twin-rotor test model and experimental measurements of hover performance based on an optimal test plan were performed for the first time.