What are Helicopter Blades Called?
When it comes to helicopters, the iconic spinning blades are a characteristic feature that sets them apart from other aircraft. So, what are these important components called? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at helicopter blades, their functions, and the different types available.
What are Rotor Blades?
From a technical standpoint, rotor blades refer to the long, straight blades that spin around the longitudinal axis of the helicopter rotor system. These blades create lift by using the reaction force of the air around them to generate an upwards force. Rotor blades are typically made of carbon fiber, fiberglass, or other lightweight materials to optimize strength and durability.
| Rotor Blade Characteristics
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Rotation | Spins around longitudinal axis |
| Function | Generates lift through air pressure |
| Material | Usually carbon fiber, fiberglass |
| Design | Varies with helicopter type and purpose |
What are Rotor Blade Sections?
Individual rotor blades are composed of several sections, each performing a specific function:
**Rotor Blade Sections**
- Root (attachment point to mast): This section is rigid and attached to the hub or mast.
- Span (long portion): This section is more flexible and responsible for converting angular motion into linear lift.
- Tip: The outermost part, slightly tapered to reduce drag.
- Airfoil Shape: The curved upper and flat lower surfaces of the blade, creating lift during rotation.
What is a Rotor Disk?
The rotor disk, also known as the helicopter’s rotor footprint, is the area surrounding the rotor blades as they spin. The rotor disk is critical in determining lift, drag, and forward thrust. By adjusting factors like blade angle, diameter, and number, aircraft designers can optimize the rotor disk for specific applications (e.g., cargo capacity, maneuverability, stability).
What are Collectors and Stators in Rotor Blades?
Two essential components within helicopter rotor blades are collectors and stators:
- Collectors: These parts direct airflow along the inside of the blade, near the root, to boost lift and efficiency.
- Stators: Strips of material attached near the tip, which aid in reducing noise and noise resonance.
What about Coaxial and Taloned Rotor Blades?
In addition to regular rotor blades, there are coaxial blades, where two or more rotors spin in opposition, and taloned blades, which have specially designed tips for improved anti-torque capabilities.
| Helicopter Type | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Copter | Generally features coaxial rotors for stability and maneuverability |
| Duck | Typifies a helicopter with a nose sipping downward, often featured coaxial rotors or tail rotors |
| Lynx | Notable helicopter with taloned blades providing enhanced anti-torque efficiency |
Conclusion
In this article, we’ve uncovered the various aspects of what helicopter blades are called – rotor blades being the primary term referring to the long, rotating blades that generate lift around the longitudinal axis. A closer look at rotor sections, the rotor disk, collectors, stators, and specialized designs like coaxial and taloned rotor blades has provided a broader understanding of these critical aircraft components.
