Question

What is the ideal range of disk loading for high hover performance?

(a) 10-100 \(\frac {N}{m^2}\)

(b) 100-500 \(\frac {N}{m^2}\)

(c) 1000-4000 \(\frac {N}{m^2}\)

(d) 5000-10,000 \(\frac {N}{m^2}\)

This question was addressed to me at a job interview.

This interesting question is from Momentum Theory topic in section Helicopter Dynamics of Aerodynamics

Answer 1

The correct answer is (b) 100-500 \(\frac {N}{m^2}\)

For explanation I would say: Based on the momentum theorem for the hovering helicopter, the disk loading must be of the minimum value to have a low value of power to thrust. Disk loading value generally ranges between 100-500 \(\frac {N}{m^2}\) for the best performance.