Optimization of Rotor Hub for Different Materials Using Ansys Software

Abstract

The rotor system in the helicopter generates lift. The rotor system has three parts. They are mast, hub and rotor blades. A metal shaft extends upwards from the helicopter is called mast. The mast is a hollow cylindrical shaft driven by transmission. The rotor blades are attached to the mast by means of the hub. The hub is the attachment point of the mast and rotor blades. Different methods are used for attachment of the blades to the hub. Based on the attachment method used, the rotor systems are classified.

When rotor spins, control system sends inputs to blades and blade responds to control the helicopter. The center of lift on the whole rotor system moves in response to these inputs to effect pitch, roll, and upward motion.The hub should possess high strength because during flight, the blade weight and aerodynamic forces due to rotational speeds was carried by hub. The strength of the hub should be calculated. This project involves modeling of the rotor hub using NX-CAD software and analyzed the rotor hub using ANSYS software. The rotor hub is analyzed for static analysis using different materials.