Abstract: The diffuser is symmetrical about an axis AA' and has a flared outer wall (2,3) going from an axial inlet to an outlet. The outer wall is divided into an upstream portion (2) and a downstream portion (3) by a circular bleed slot (1) disposed symmetrically about the axis. The profile of the outer wall is such that, in operation, the direction of fluid flow along the outer wall is from the inlet towards the outlet, both over the upstream portion, and over the downstream portion. Further, it is so arranged that the pressure gradient measured at the surface of the wall and along the direction of fluid flow is negative upstream from the bleed slot and positive downstream therefrom. This ensures that only a small percentage of the fluid flow needs to be bled off to achieve desirable flow conditions, thereby providing good diffuser efficiency.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a blade profile for rotary wing of an aircraft, comprising, between the leading edge and the trailing edge, a convex upper surface and a non-concave lower surface, wherein, at the point of maximum curvature of the leading edge, the radius of curvature Ro is approximately defined by the expression Ro=1.7 C. e.sub.max.sup.2, in which C represents the chord and e.sub.max the relative thickness of said profile and the portion of lower surface adjacent the leading edge extends to about 20% of the chord from said leading edge and presents a very small general curvature decreasing continuously in the direction of the trailing edge up to the point of minimum curvature of the lower surface. The invention is more particularly applicable to obtaining rotary wings, for example for helicopters, capable of very high performances both when hovering, and in high speed flight, as well as during manoeuvres.