Help with Power Curves for Steady Level Flight

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on creating Power curves for a Ryan Navion A aircraft, specifically analyzing the Power Required and Power Available versus Velocity during steady level flight. The Power Available curve is proposed to be a flat line represented by the equation P(av) = ηP, where η is the propeller efficiency (0.8) and P is the engine power that varies with altitude. Participants clarify that while the Power Available may appear constant, it can vary slightly with velocity due to aerodynamic factors. This nuanced understanding is essential for accurate performance modeling.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of aircraft performance metrics
  • Knowledge of propeller efficiency and its impact on power
  • Familiarity with the concept of steady level flight
  • Basic grasp of aerodynamic principles
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of altitude on engine power output
  • Study the relationship between velocity and aerodynamic drag
  • Explore advanced modeling techniques for Power curves in aviation
  • Learn about the impact of propeller design on efficiency
USEFUL FOR

Aerospace engineers, aviation students, and anyone involved in aircraft performance analysis will benefit from this discussion.

Massiveattack
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Hello all, first time poster here so please go easy :)

I have to create a set of Power curves (Power Required and Power Available vs. Velocity) for a propeller-driven Ryan Navion A aircraft at intervals of 1000m.

My question to you is this, due to the fact that the aircraft is in steady level flight will the Power AVAILABLE curve simply be a flat line at:

P(av)=ηP
where η=propeller efficiency (0.8)
and P=engine power variation with altitude


... or is it more complicated than this? When I think about it i'd assume that the power available would vary slightly with velocity but I am just not so sure. Any corrections/help/advice would be appreciated!

Happy New Year.
 
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Thanks guys, really helpful
 

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