Modeling joint parameters to make sense of helicopter induced emissions effects: greener rotorcraft

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to ascertain the greenest helicopters by modeling joint parameters to make sense of induced emissions effects of helicopters allocated to various categories.

Design/methodology/approach

Emission indexes of helicopters construct the pillars of the methodology under use. Three different parameters are derived from emission indices: the index showing grams of pollutants that an engine produces per kWh; the index comparing of pollutant mass depending on the energy content of the fuel; and the index expressing the presence of the unreacted hydrocarbon (unburned) released into the atmosphere as a result of the combustion reaction.

Findings

Various helicopters have been designated as sensitive and insensitive to the environment under various conditions and in different categories. Details are in the conclusions section.

Practical implications

This study includes methods that can be used to select environmentally sensitive helicopters of various categories according to specific pollutants and their combustion efficiency.

Originality/value

The originality of the work lies in the determination of the most sensitive and insensitive to the environment by using true flight data of helicopters operating in various categories during different flight phases. In addition, this paper with an approach to identifying green helicopters has the capability to support studies on regulations for helicopters in some countries by policymakers.

Citation

Ekici, S. (2021), "Modeling joint parameters to make sense of helicopter induced emissions effects: greener rotorcraft", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 93 No. 3, pp. 366-383. https://doi.org/10.1108/AEAT-08-2020-0164