Testing props

From: Martin Alderman <malderman_at_fmschools.org>
Date: Tue, 1 May 2007 11:33:53 -0400

Thanks for all the comments! They have provided a few answers and lots of good questions to pursue. For the record, my interest is threefold.
 
1) I would like to compare the effectiveness of various flaring props at 'loading' the motor at various torques. I haven't tried to make a VP prop, yet, but it would fit this interest nicely. Your comments on static vs. dynamic testing, and test stand vs. in-flight testing have helped in this area.
 
2) I'd like to see how different props influence how power varies during flight. (To a racing bicyclist, the power is actually much more important during a ride profile than the speed at any given moment. I assumed it is similar for our planes and thought it would be interesting to examine.)
 
3) I am working on designing some physics labs for Cornell. One lab concept would have students examine energy conversion and the blades used on wind generation systems. The techniques for testing props could also be useful in such a lab.
 
Thanks again for your input
 
Marty
 
Martin Alderman
Physics Teacher!
Fayetteville-Manlius High School
8201 East Seneca Turnpike
Manlius, NY 13104

 
Received on Tue May 01 2007 - 08:35:10 CEST