EVALUATION OF THE DUST CLOUD GENERATED BY HELICOPTER ROTOR DOWNWASH

reportActive / Technical Report | Accession Number: AD0669676 | Open PDF

Abstract:

The dust cloud generated by a tandem-rotor H-21 helicopter was studied as a function of type of soil, hover height and disc loading. A total of 98 tests were made, and three different test sites were used. Samples were collected at 25 locations on the helicopter. Analyses were made for dust content and particle size distribution. Average dust concentrations at the area of highest dust density, i.e., at rotor blade overlap, are given. The highest concentrations were measured at the site of rotor blade overlap, and the lowest concentrations were found beneath the rotor hubs. The maximum particle size decreased with increasing elevation. No particles over 500 microns were found at any elevation. Dust concentrations of 40 mgcu ft were measured during takeoff and approach maneuvers. With another helicopter hovering in the immediate area, concentrations of 64 mgcu ft were measured.

Author(s):
Rodgers, Sheridan J.
Author Organization(s):
MSA RESEARCH CORP EVANS CITY PA
Descriptive Note:
Final rept.
Pagination:
0136

Security Markings

DOCUMENT & CONTEXTUAL SUMMARY

Distribution:
Approved For Public Release
Distribution Statement:
Approved For Public Release; Distribution Is Unlimited.

RECORD

Collection: TR
Identifying Numbers
Report Number(s):
USAAVLABS-TR-67-81
Contract/Grant Number(s):
DA-44-177-AMC-289(T)
Project Number(s):
DA-1V021701A047
Monitor Series:
TR-67-81, USAAVLABS
 Subject Terms
Joint Capability Areas:
JCA_5.3_Planning; JCA_5_Command and Control; JCA_1.2.5_Lessons Learned
Communities of Interest:
No COI(s) Identified
Descriptor(s):
*HELICOPTER ROTORS, *DUST, *GROUND EFFECT, PARTICLE SIZE, LIFE EXPECTANCY(SERVICE LIFE), SOILS, SAMPLING, DOWNWASH, ENGINE AIR SYSTEMS COMPONENTS, HELICOPTER ENGINES, HOVERING, INGESTION(ENGINES), VISIBILITY, EROSION, ROTOR BLADES(ROTARY WINGS), PILOTS
Field(s)/Group(s):
Aerodynamics, Helicopters, Jet and Gas Turbine Engines
Keyword(s):
H 34 AIRCRAFT, H 21 AIRCRAFT
Report Date:
1968 Mar 01