Help with Power Curves for Steady Level Flight

AI Thread Summary
In creating Power curves for a Ryan Navion A aircraft, the Power Available curve can be approximated as a flat line at P(av)=ηP, where η is the propeller efficiency (0.8) and P is the engine power that varies with altitude. However, the discussion raises the possibility that the Power Available may vary slightly with velocity due to factors like changes in air density and propeller performance at different speeds. The consensus suggests that while the curve may not be perfectly flat, the variations are likely minimal in steady level flight. Further analysis may be necessary to accurately capture these nuances. Overall, understanding the relationship between power and velocity is crucial for accurate curve representation.
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
 
Due to the constant never ending supply of "cool stuff" happening in Aerospace these days I'm creating this thread to consolidate posts every time something new comes along. Please feel free to add random information if its relevant. So to start things off here is the SpaceX Dragon launch coming up shortly, I'll be following up afterwards to see how it all goes. :smile: https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacex/

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