Headturner,
I think the advantages of traction drive might be:
1) low noise
2) easier to make
3) higher ratio output
4) longer life
5) no gear tooth fatigue
disadvantages:
1) high bearing load (as mentioned by Ascend Charlie)
but not in the planetery configuration that is apparently self adjusting.
2) slight slippage (about 1%)
Still wondering if any helo engineers have considered using traction drive.
Flight Safety,
Your post went in while I was I typing. Very good info. I thought friction and traction was the same. Thanks for the clarification. Do you know if any helos use traction drive?