Adjustments to the Tail Rotor Dynamics

To make the HX50 as quiet as it can possibly be, we've implemented precise adjustments to the tail rotor design:

1. Reduced Tip Speed: We've slightly decreased the rotational speed of the tail rotor blade tips. This is a key factor in lowering the aerodynamic noise generated.

2. Increased Blade Chord: To perfectly balance this change and ensure the tail rotor maintains its full effectiveness, we've increased the width (the "chord") of the blades.

Gearbox Updates

These refinements naturally lead to adjustments elsewhere. To accommodate the new, optimised rotational speed of the quieter tail rotor blades, a series of minor changes have been implemented within the tail rotor gearbox. This ensures the gearbox drives the tail rotor precisely at its correct, updated speed, maintaining perfect system harmony.

Performance Intact, Noise Reduced

The HX50 retains all its designed performance capabilities – including its proven stability in 35 knots of crosswind from any direction. What we gain is a "lovely quiet tail rotor," enhancing the overall quality of flight and getting the absolute best out of the aircraft's potential.

Analysis and Testing

The refined design for the tail rotor gearbox is now complete, or "parked" in engineering terms. Before moving to physical trials, it will undergo detailed structural analysis to verify the integrity of all modified components.

Following successful analysis, the gearbox will be ready for rigorous bench testing, paving the way for upcoming flight and ground test commissioning.