Comprehensive approach to comparative efficiency evaluation of HPS for helicopters

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the work is to carry out analysis of the possibilities and estimation of electric drive efficiency for rotors of helicopter propulsion systems (PS).

Design/methodology/approach

Methodology and comprehensive multidisciplinary technology for efficiency estimation of conventional and unconventional architectures PS on rotorcraft system level at preliminary design phase were developed.

Findings

Application of the approach allow to carry out analysis of hybrid (based on gas turbine and piston engines) and full electrical PS for superlight-, light- and medium-size helicopters.

Practical implications

It was shown what level of electrical technologies improvement may provide positive effect of the using of hybrid and full electrical helicopter PS of different architectures.

Originality/value

Close matching of helicopter and engine design and calculation aspects, as well as possibilities to use the external (experimental) performances of engine components, whole PS and helicopter aerodynamic performance, are the distinctive features of proposed technology and methodology.

Citation

Zakharchenko, V. and Lukovnikov, A. (2014), "Comprehensive approach to comparative efficiency evaluation of HPS for helicopters", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 86 No. 6, pp. 575-583. https://doi.org/10.1108/AEAT-06-2014-0091