Principles of Helicopter Aerodynamics (Cambridge Aerospace Series)

Rating:
Summary: A must have for all rotorcraft engineers
Review: As an aerospace engineer I have read many books on rotorcraft and I must admit that this is the most up to date and useful text on rotorcraft that I have had the pleasure to read. There are many aspects of the text that stand out, however the one I found most useful, especially as a graduate student, was that the equations are derived from engineering basics and are accompanied by clear explanations of the principles involved. The text and equations are also supplimented by clear diagrams that serve to enhance understanding of the more complex topics covered. All in all a great book and one that I would highly recommend to both rotorcraft students and practicing engineers alike.

Rating:
Summary: A must have for all rotorcraft engineers
Review: As an aerospace engineer I have read many books on rotorcraft and I must admit that this is the most up to date and useful text on rotorcraft that I have had the pleasure to read. There are many aspects of the text that stand out, however the one I found most useful, especially as a graduate student, was that the equations are derived from engineering basics and are accompanied by clear explanations of the principles involved. The text and equations are also supplimented by clear diagrams that serve to enhance understanding of the more complex topics covered. All in all a great book and one that I would highly recommend to both rotorcraft students and practicing engineers alike.

Rating:
Summary: (4.5 stars) Clear and comprehensive for the most part
Review: The book's well-written and deep, with a wise emphasis on comparing theoretical with actual performance. Formulae are derived conveniently and without excessive computation. The chapter "Conceptual Design of Helicopters" provides a nice discussion of the various helicopter design features (thoroughly dissected in previous chapters), and could be read alone for those needing a basic understanding of helicopter design. Sadly there is little content towards coaxial designs, but Leishman will rectify this in the 2nd edition, to be released in August.

A separate review chapter that identifies the details between all of the various equations for inflow, blade pitch etc. would have been convenient. Which formula assumes what? Which is the most detailed? Such a chapter isn't completely necessary, but would ease the understanding of so many similar formulae.

All in all it's a good book, with a logical organization and fairly comprehensive content (the omission of coaxials is understandable, as they're still rare designs). The ample explanations and excellent figures provide a detailed and concise overview of helicopter aerodynamics.