This module will be taught by Lectures & Tutorials and by using standard aircraft equipment, model aircraft and test equipment.
Module Aim:
The student will understand the working principles of propellers and basic maintenance procedures on propellers as found on modern commercial aircraft used throughout the aircraft industry.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner should be able to:
LO1
Describe the operating principles of the different types of propeller
LO2
Describe the maintenance that maybe performed on a propeller
LO3
Perform calculations to statically and dynamically balance a rotating mass
LO4
Calculate the thrust and efficiency of a propeller.
LO5
Determine the maximum torque that a propeller shaft can transmit
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed.
No requirements listed
Module Content & Assessment
Indicative Content
Fundamentals
Blade element theory; High/low blade angle, reverse angle, angle of attack, rotational speed; Propeller slip; Aerodynamic, centrifugal, and thrust forces; Torque; Relative airflow on blade angle of attack; Vibration and resonance
Propeller Construction
Construction methods and materials used in wooden, composite and metal propellers; Blade station, blade face, blade shank, blade back and hub assembly; Fixed pitch, controllable pitch, constant speeding propeller; Propeller/spinner installation
Propeller Pitch Control
Speed control and pitch change methods, mechanical and electrical/electronic; Feathering and reverse pitch; Overspeed protection. Reverse pitch protection and associated electronic systems.