Helifolk,
My natural bias is towards powertrains, with heli powertrains being about the most interesting there is. I would like to cast the thread-net over the subject of engine choice for operation. In particular i would like to know which engines pilots prefer and why.
Any reason goes from good fuel burn to liking the noise it makes on a cold winters day. Since an engine is only as good as its interface, control preferences are fine too.
My own preference would be:
1. Dirt cheap (outlay and maintenance)
2. Ultra reliable (parts) (see 1)
3. Ultra durable (service life) (see 1)
4. Good fuel burn (BSFC or kg/NM) (see 1)
5. Good power /weight (>1 kW/kg)
6. Fast response (<0.5 sec transient, eg turbine lag)
7. Single engine control (no mixture, carb heat etc)
I've pretty much described future developments of the VW turbodiesel, but then my requirements are only for occasional recreational flying. I'm also a tight wad (aren't all engineers?).
***Please note, this thread is not for the purpose of market research. The purpose is only to enlighten me as to what order to put the criterion affecting engine design for helicopters.***
Mart