PPRuNe Forums - View Single Post - Vortex Ring / Settling with power (Merged)
Old 19th Aug 2009, 18:22
  #290 (permalink)  
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Pcpahari - I think what you are asking is :

Does the heavier helicopter operating at higher pitch angles to hover reach a blade stall at the root earlier in a descent than a lighter helicopter?

I think the simplistic explanation of the flow around the tips and roots of the blades given in the RAF manual and others may be an outdated version of events which have subsequently been shown in more detail by better modelling and testing.

Nick's sources imply that VRS can be overcome with power if there is sufficient available which would indicate that intensification of the tip votices and extensive stalling of the roots doesn't happen.

Remember that the older manuals and explanations were created in the days of underpowered helos which had low disc loadings because of the low engine power. It may be that the 'intensification' of VRS was just overpitching as the aircraft ran out of power or that the older aerofoil sections on wooden or metal blades were not as efficient as modern, composite blades with cambered sections.

I am sure the TPs on this forum will have more to add.
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