1. What is Disk Loading?

Disk Loading is a measure of the load supported by a rotor disk in helicopter and VTOL aircraft design. It represents the amount of weight that must be supported per unit area of the rotor disk.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Disk Loading formula:

Where:

• \( W_{load} \) — Disk Loading (N/m²)
• \( W_a \) — Aircraft Weight (N)
• \( d_r \) — Diameter of Rotor (m)
• \( \pi \) — Mathematical constant pi (approximately 3.14159)

Explanation: The formula calculates the load distribution over the rotor disk area, which is crucial for determining rotor performance and efficiency.

3. Importance of Disk Loading Calculation

Details: Disk loading is a critical parameter in rotorcraft design that affects hover efficiency, power requirements, and overall aircraft performance. Lower disk loading generally indicates better hover efficiency.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter aircraft weight in Newtons and rotor diameter in meters. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are typical disk loading values for helicopters?
A: Typical values range from 200-500 N/m² for light helicopters to 1000-2000 N/m² for heavy transport helicopters.

Q2: How does disk loading affect aircraft performance?
A: Lower disk loading generally provides better hover efficiency and lower power requirements, while higher disk loading allows for smaller rotor systems.

Q3: Can this formula be used for multi-rotor systems?
A: For multi-rotor systems, the total disk area would be the sum of individual rotor disk areas.

Q4: What units should be used for input values?
A: Weight should be in Newtons and diameter in meters to get disk loading in N/m² (Pascals).

Q5: How does disk loading relate to thrust?
A: Disk loading is directly related to the thrust required to support the aircraft's weight during hover operations.