In the momentum theory analysis the rotor is modeled as an actuator disk,

which is a circular surface of zero thickness that can support a pressure differ
ence
and thus accelerate the air through the disk.
Assumptions:
1. Infinitely thin disc of area A which offers no resistance to air passing
through it.
2. Purely 1-D analysis
3. Thrust loading and velocity are uniform over the disk.
4. Far upstream and far down stream the pressure is freestream static pressure.
5. Viscous effects are not considered (no drag, no momentum diffusion)
6. Incompressible (compressibility correction can be made)
Consider an actuator disk of area A and total thrust T (Fig. 2-1). It is assumed
that the loading is distributed uniformly over the disk. Let be the i duced velo
city at the rotor disk a d w be the wake-i duced velocity i fi itely far dow stre
am. A
well-defi ed, smooth slipstream is assumed, with a d w u iform over the slipstream cross-sectio . The rotatio al e ergy i the wake due to the rotor torque
is
eglected. The fluid is i compressible a d i viscid. The mass flux through the d
isk
is m=pAV
T=mw
Tv=1/2 mw^2
w=2v
Figure of Merit: FM
The ratio of the i duced or ideal power to the actual power is k ow as the
Figure of Merit.
FM = i duced Power / Actual Power
Vd/P$actual.
For a ideal rotor FM = 1.0
Very good practical rotor FM = 0.8