DGCA Module 17 – Propeller
Sub■Module 1: Fundamentals
Sub■Module 2: Propeller Construction
Introduction to Propellers
• A propeller is a rotating aerofoil that converts engine rotational power into thrust to move the aircraft
forward.
• Each propeller blade acts like a rotating wing producing lift which acts in the forward direction and is
called thrust.
Propeller Theory
• Newton’s Third Law: The propeller pushes air backward and the reaction force pushes the aircraft
forward.
• Aerofoil Theory: The aerofoil shaped blade creates pressure difference producing lift which acts as
thrust.
Propeller Terminology
• Propeller Diameter – Distance from tip of one blade to tip of the opposite blade.
• Propeller Disc – Circular area swept by rotating blades.
• Chord Line – Straight line between leading and trailing edge.
• Blade Angle – Angle between chord line and plane of rotation.
• Angle of Attack – Angle between relative airflow and chord line.
Propeller Pitch
• Geometric Pitch – Theoretical distance propeller would move in one revolution without slip.
• Effective Pitch – Actual distance moved forward in one revolution.
• Slip – Difference between geometric pitch and effective pitch.
Blade Twist
• Blade angle decreases from root to tip because the tip travels faster than the root.
• This ensures nearly uniform angle of attack along the blade.
Forces Acting on Propeller
• Thrust Bending Force – Bends blade forward.
• Centrifugal Force – Pulls blades outward from hub.
• Torque Bending Force – Twists blade due to air resistance.
• Aerodynamic Twisting Moment – Caused by pressure distribution on blade.
Propeller Efficiency
• Efficiency = Useful thrust power / Engine power input.
• Typical efficiency ranges from 80% to 90%.
Types of Propellers
• Fixed Pitch Propeller – Blade angle cannot change.
• Ground Adjustable Propeller – Pitch adjustable on ground.
• Controllable Pitch Propeller – Pitch adjustable in flight.
• Constant Speed Propeller – Automatically maintains constant RPM.
Propeller Assembly
• A propeller assembly includes hub, blades, pitch change mechanism and spinner.
Propeller Hub
• The central part connecting propeller to engine crankshaft.
• It holds blades and transfers engine torque.
Propeller Blades
• Blade Root – Thick section near hub.
• Blade Shank – Portion inserted inside hub.
• Blade Tip – Outer end with highest rotational speed.
• Leading Edge – First edge meeting airflow.
• Trailing Edge – Rear edge of blade.
Blade Airfoil Section
• Each blade has camber, chord line, leading edge and trailing edge which produce lift (thrust).
Materials Used in Propellers
• Wood – Lightweight and vibration absorbing.
• Aluminium Alloy – Strong and commonly used.
• Composite – Carbon fiber or fiberglass with high strength and low weight.
Blade Protection
• Leading edge protection using stainless steel strip.
• Anti■erosion coatings protect from rain and sand.
• De■icing systems prevent ice accumulation.
Spinner
• Cone shaped cover placed over propeller hub to reduce drag and improve airflow.
Propeller Balancing
• Static Balancing – Ensures even weight distribution.
• Dynamic Balancing – Done while propeller rotates on aircraft.
Propeller Attachment
• Mounted on engine crankshaft flange using bolts, nuts and locking plates.
Propeller Inspection
• Check for cracks, corrosion, leading edge damage, blade twist, hub damage and oil leakage.