Pitts:
Not exactly!
the test is part of the Type Investigation for the certification of a new helicopter.
As such, it is discussed with the airworthiness Authorities.
And, there is a standardized and detailed procedure that is followed.
for instance, ref. to the FAA Advisory circular AC29, as follows:
AC 29-2C - Section 29.927(c):
(2) Procedures.
(i) Section 29.927(c)(1) prescribes a test to demonstrate that the
effects of a loss of lubrication will not prevent continued safe powered operation
for category A rotorcraft for at least 30 minutes after illumination of the low oil
pressure warning device (required by § 29.1305). For category B rotorcraft,
§ 29.927(c)(2) prescribes the tests for safe operation under autorotative
conditions must continue for at least 15 minutes.
(ii) An acceptable means of demonstrating compliance with this rule is
through the use of a bench test (transmission test rig). Since this is essentially a
durability test of the transmission to operate with residual oil, typically the worst
case failure (i.e., the undrainable oil or the oil remaining after a severe pressure
leak, whichever results in a greater loss of oil in the transmission’s normal use
lubrication system) is used as a critical entry point for the test; see paragraph
a.(2)(iii).
(iii) The transmission should be stabilized at the torque associated with
maximum continuous power (reacted as appropriate at the main mast and tail
rotor output quills) at a normal main rotor mast speed, oil temperature that is at
the highest limit for continuous operation, and oil pressure that is within the
normal operating range. A vertical load should be applied at the mast, equal to
the gross weight of the rotorcraft at 1g. Once the transmission oil temperature is
stabilized, simulate the worst case failure in the normal use lubrication system.
Upon illumination of the low oil pressure warning device (required by § 29.1305),
reduce the input torque for category A rotorcraft to the minimum torque
necessary to sustain flight and continue the test for at least 30 minutes at the
maximum gross weight and the most efficient flight conditions. To complete the
test, apply an input torque to the transmission for approximately 25 seconds to
simulate an autorotation. The last 10 seconds (of the 25 seconds) should be at
the torque required for a minimum power landing. A successful demonstration
may involve limited damage to the transmission, provided it is determined that
the autorotative capabilities of the rotorcraft were not significantly impaired. For
category B rotorcraft, upon illumination of the low oil pressure warning device,
reduce the input torque to simulate an autorotation and continue transmission
operation for 15 minutes. To complete the test, apply an input torque to the
transmission for approximately 10 seconds to simulate a minimum power
landing. A successful demonstration may involve limited damage to the
transmission provided it is determined that the autorotative capabilities of the
rotorcraft were not significantly impaired. If compliance with category A
requirements is demonstrated, category B requirements will have been met.