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Basics 3 min read

Compressor

The compressor may consist of an axial compressor, a centrifugal compressor, or combination of the two. An axial compressor consists…

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Basics 3 min read

Engines

Reciprocating Engines Reciprocating engines, also called piston engines, are generally used in smaller helicopters. Most training helicopters use reciprocating engines…

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Basics 1 min read

Antitorque Drive Systems

The antitorque drive system consists of an antitorque drive shaft and a antitorque transmission mounted at the end of the…

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Basics 2 min read

Antitorque System

Helicopters with a single, main rotor system require a separate antitorque system. This is most often accomplished through a variable…

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Basics 1 min read

Freewheeling Unit

Since lift in a helicopter is provided by rotating airfoils, these airfoils must be free to rotate if the engine…

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Basics 1 min read

Swash Plate Assembly

The purpose of the swash plate is to convert stationary control inputs from the pilot into rotating inputs which can…

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Basics 1 min read

Tandem Rotor

Tandem rotor (sometimes referred to as dual rotor) helicopters have two large horizontal rotor assemblies; a twin rotor system, instead…

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Basics 2 min read

Rigid Rotor System

The rigid rotor system shown in Figure 4-3 is mechanically simple, but structurally complex because operating loads must be absorbed…

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