How is a helicopter rotor attached?
Each main rotor is mounted on a vertical mast over the top of the helicopter, as opposed to a helicopter tail rotor, which connects through a combination of drive shaft(s) and gearboxes along the tail boom. The blade pitch is typically controlled by a swashplate connected to the helicopter flight controls.
What causes retreating blade stall?
High weight, low rotor r.p.m., high density altitude, turbulence and/or steep, abrupt turns are all conducive to retreating blade stall at high forward airspeeds as they increase the blade pitch to generate more thrust and hence increase the angle of attack.
How are the blades of a helicopter balanced?
Balancing of the main rotor system is accomplished in the helicopter’s main rotational frequency. This is expressed as the n-per-rev, where n = the number of blades in the system. A three-bladed rotor system would have an inherent
How do you balance rotor blades on balancer?
Place the rotor blades side by side and mark the CG point on the lighter blade. Place the lighter blade on the balance with the indicator in line with the marked CG point. Apply film to the lighter end until the rotor blade balances horizontally. Mount both blades on the balancer and apply tape to the lighter blade AT THE CG POINT ONLY.
Can a helicopter operator do a static balance?
A static balance is rarely done by most helicopter operators. This is because blades can only be successfully statically balanced to obtain interchangeability by comparing them to a Master Blade normally only held by certified blade overhaul facilities and OEMs. This methodology has its own limitations as revealed in AMCOM Report.
Who is the owner of rotor blade track and balance?
It specializes in Bell and Enstrom helicopters and provides service, parts, charter and flight instruction. Company president Roger Sharkey is well recognized in our industry in performing helicopter track-and-balance maintenance. Sharkey started operations on Oct. 24, 1973. The first aircraft he bought was an ex-army surplus Hiller 12 C.