thicker blades and more of them.

[gofastclint]

I have noticed larger turbo prop aircraft are getting a greater number of thicker blades on their props with great result in lowering noise and it has me thinking, is it more fuel efficent? Or is it a compromise in reducing noise? If it is more fuel efficent and quieter, when will we see them on RA aircraft? Has anyone been testing new designs of prop on their light aircraft and are you seeing positive results?

 

 

[Guest Brett Campany]

You know, that's a good question because I'd like to see what the difference is between the 3 bladed prop on the Sportcruiser compared to a two bladed, thicker prop another bloke has been using on his Sportcruiser in Japan.

 

Obviously fuel efficiency and performance would be the biggest in the changes.

 

 

[newairly]

I think it is to allow a smaller diameter for the same power absorption. Less stress and maybe better efficiency by avoiding near sonic tip velocity.

 

I do not see much application for light aircraft.

 

Phil