- #1
Jarfi
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Simple question, Given a constant speed, is the thrust of a propeller linearly related to it's pitch?
In summary, the relationship between the thrust of a propeller and its pitch is not linear. The pitch affects the thrust of the propeller when it is moving forwards, but in a static situation, it does not have a significant impact. The thrust from a propeller is similar to the lift from a wing, and its relationship can be seen in graphs of lift vs angle of attack. However, the shape of the curve depends on the wing section.
- #2
rbelli1
Gold Member
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No.
Think about the thrust at 0 and 90 degrees.
BoB
Think about the thrust at 0 and 90 degrees.
BoB
- #3
Jarfi
- 384
- 12
rbelli1 said:
What exactly is the relationship then?
- #4
CWatters
Science Advisor
Homework Helper
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First of all what do you mean by "constant speed"? On a plane flying at a constant speed drag and thrust are usually constant and equal to each other. If you vary the pitch and as a result you change thrust then speed will usually change.
A prop blade is essentially a wing. Thrust from a prop is roughly equivalent to lift from a wing. Perhaps take a look at graphs of lift vs angle of attack. The shape of the curve depends on the wing section. It might be reasonably linear over a narrow range of angles...
Just the first one I could google. I think it's a model aircraft wing section...
A prop blade is essentially a wing. Thrust from a prop is roughly equivalent to lift from a wing. Perhaps take a look at graphs of lift vs angle of attack. The shape of the curve depends on the wing section. It might be reasonably linear over a narrow range of angles...
Just the first one I could google. I think it's a model aircraft wing section...
- #5
rcgldr
Homework Helper
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If you search online for "static thrust calculator", most of them don't have an input parameter for pitch, stating that pitch (within reason) doesn't make much difference in a static situation, due to limitations of the induced flow in a static situation.
The pitch comes into play when the prop is moving forwards. As air speed increase, a greater amount of pitch can be used on aircraft with adjustable pitch.
The pitch comes into play when the prop is moving forwards. As air speed increase, a greater amount of pitch can be used on aircraft with adjustable pitch.
Related to Is thrust linearly related to propeller-pitch?
1. How is thrust related to propeller pitch?
Thrust and propeller pitch have a linear relationship, meaning that as the propeller pitch increases, so does the thrust generated. This is because the propeller blades are at a steeper angle, allowing for a larger surface area to push against the air or water and create more thrust.
2. Is there a specific formula for calculating thrust based on propeller pitch?
Yes, there is a general formula for calculating thrust based on propeller pitch. It is T = k * P^2, where T is the thrust, k is a constant, and P is the propeller pitch. However, this formula may vary depending on the specific design and characteristics of the propeller.
3. How does propeller pitch affect the efficiency of the propeller?
The efficiency of a propeller is directly affected by the pitch. Generally, higher propeller pitch leads to higher efficiency because it allows the propeller to move more air or water with each rotation. However, there is a limit to this, as too high of a pitch can cause the propeller to stall and decrease efficiency.
4. Can thrust be changed by adjusting the propeller pitch?
Yes, thrust can be changed by adjusting the propeller pitch. As mentioned before, a higher pitch will result in higher thrust and a lower pitch will result in lower thrust. This is why many vehicles, such as boats and airplanes, have adjustable propellers to optimize thrust for different conditions.
5. What other factors besides propeller pitch can affect thrust?
Other factors that can affect thrust include the size and shape of the propeller blades, the number of blades, the rotation speed, and the angle of attack. Additionally, environmental factors such as air density and water conditions can also impact thrust. The overall design and efficiency of the propeller also play a significant role in determining thrust.
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