Why aren't there more co-axial helos?

Pi1otguy

Pi1otguy

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Fox McCloud
I suppose this is like asking fixed-wingers why there aren't more "unspinable" Ercoupes.

Considering coax helos lessen the retreating blade stall issue among other issues helo pilots watch out for, why don't we see more coax helos?
 
They have been replaced with four pair RJ 45 helos
:rofl:
 
A principal disadvantage of the coaxial rotor design is the increased mechanical complexity of the rotor hub. The linkages and swashplates for two rotor systems need to be assembled atop the mast, which is more complex because of the need to drive two rotors in opposite directions. Because of the greater number of moving parts and complexity, the coaxial rotor system is more prone to mechanical faults and possible failure.
 
Rotor&Wing said:
A principal disadvantage of the coaxial rotor design is the increased mechanical complexity of the rotor hub. The linkages and swashplates for two rotor systems need to be assembled atop the mast, which is more complex because of the need to drive two rotors in opposite directions. Because of the greater number of moving parts and complexity, the coaxial rotor system is more prone to mechanical faults and possible failure.
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I've got a cheap ($40) little R/C helicopter with contra-rotating rotors. The tail rotor actually sits horizontally on the boom, and works to push the tail up (to go forward) or tail down (do go backward).

It works great, and is remarkably stable. We fly it in our theater on Movie Night at the Inn, and -- with practice -- it's possible to fly it over and IN the crowd.

I've never seen a full-sized 'copter with this control design. Anyone know why?
 
Jay Honeck said:
I've never seen a full-sized 'copter with this control design. Anyone know why?
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There were/are several Soviet Kamov designs built and I think Sikorsky tried a couple but they didn't work out. Probably for the reasons Rotor & Wing mentioned.


Trapper John
 
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