Aluminum Propeller Design & Applications: Who to Contact?

  • Thread starter Sirmisko
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    Aluminum
In summary: The idea is to build a 1.2 meter diameter aluminum prop with a weight of 1000 grams and generate thrust of 550 newtons. The goal is to use this prop primarily for powered para gliders. However, before the design leaves blueprint stage, the author wants to hear arguments for and against the design.
  • #1
Sirmisko
5
0
I had this posted in the wrong forum...srry :blushing:

I need to contact who ever would be authority on propeller design and applications.

In short, the Idea is to build a Aluminum prop, 1.2 meters diameter with weight of about 1000 grams. Targeted application would be primarily for powered para gliders. I need some arguments for and against before it leaves blueprint stage.

If you can point me in the right direction as to who the best contact for me would be, I would be ever so grateful.

If any of you have experience on the issue, comments are more than welcome.
 
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  • #2
There are a lot of "depends" comments to be made here. What thrust? What RPM? What other loads are you expecting? What kind of stiffening are you using? Have you done ANY load analyses yet? etc...
 
  • #3
- Operating @ 2500 rpm
- Should test to 3800 rpm.
- Continuous profle design
- Material Al alloy 6061-T6
- generating thrust 550n (54 kg)
 
  • #4
OK. That's fine and all. However, how can anyone who has never seen what it is you are doing to tell you if it will work? That's YOUR job. You give extremely vague details. You give no decription of the design. You give no layout showing how you plan to assemble or build this. You give no reference on how you plan to reinforce it and where. What details you have given us are about as useful as what the color is going to be. Like I asked before, have you done ANY structural analysis on this design?

Instead of asking broad, unanswerable questions, do your own analysis and ask SPECIFIC questions regarding that analysis.
 
  • #5
wood good old tree stuff
works better in that size
eazy to work and cheap

as an alloy prop will need to be hollow
to get a good foil shape at that weight
costly and hard to make

carbon fiber over foam core may work
if you hate wood
but cost is a lot more
for very little gain

stika spruce is the cheap eazy way to go
and has been used for years
and fun to work with
and requires common tools to shape
 
  • #6
Some jet engine fan blades are designed this way. FWIW I spent several years writing software to do the stress and vibration analysis of them, since at the time the commercial programs (NASTRAN, ABAQUS etc) wouldn't do the job - they will do it now, but it ain't straightforward.

Unfortunately for you, that work was and still is a commercial secret - so don't ask for details!

FWIW it's no secret that the fan blade material was titanium not aluminum, and the manufacturing technique we used (eventually) was superplastic forming.
 

1. What factors should be considered when designing an aluminum propeller?

When designing an aluminum propeller, factors that should be considered include the propeller diameter, number of blades, blade angle, blade shape, and material thickness. These factors will affect the performance and efficiency of the propeller.

2. How does the material used affect the performance of an aluminum propeller?

The material used for an aluminum propeller can greatly impact its performance. A high-quality, corrosion-resistant material will ensure the propeller maintains its shape and maintains its efficiency over time. Additionally, the material's strength and weight will also affect the propeller's performance and durability.

3. Can aluminum propellers be used in saltwater environments?

Yes, aluminum propellers can be used in saltwater environments. However, the propellers should be properly coated or treated to prevent corrosion from the saltwater. Regular maintenance and cleaning is also important for maintaining the propeller's longevity in saltwater.

4. Who should I contact for assistance with aluminum propeller design?

If you are designing an aluminum propeller, it is recommended to contact a marine engineer or a propeller design specialist for assistance. They will have the expertise and resources to help you design the most efficient propeller for your specific needs.

5. What are some common applications for aluminum propellers?

Aluminum propellers are commonly used in small recreational boats, as well as larger commercial vessels such as ferries and fishing boats. They are also used in aircraft engines, wind turbines, and other industrial applications where lightweight and efficient propellers are needed.

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