Electric Constant Speed Propeller

Electric Constant Speed Propeller Models
(please click on prop)

The electric variable pitch propellers named ELCOPROP® were introduced to the market in 1985 and have initially been developed for motorgliders as a substitute of the 3 position mechanic variable pitch propeller with feathering capability. In the early days there was just a simple manual pitch control, but later the system has been upgraded with full constant speed capability, which makes it suitable for regular aircrafts and engines producing up to 350 HP. Presently 2-, 3- and 4-blade versions are in production. Feathering capability can be integrated optionally, reverse capability can be integrated for the use on airships, only. ELCOPROP® is the only certified Electric Constant Speed Propeller available worldwide and is patented in the U.S. and Germany. Several STC's are available.

The single piece hub is made from forged or solid aerospace aluminum alloy. After machining, the outside is shot-peened and thereafter the hub is anodized as corrosion protection (the hub's outside is additionally painted for sea applications). The blade bearings are special design ball bearings, where the balls act as split retainers for holding the blades in the hub, which creates an increased safety factor against blade loss.
The outer bearing race is a single piece part and pressed into the hub, while the inner race is split and installed on the blade ferrule. The blade preload is adjusted by changing the thickness of a plastic shim. Blade and bearing are secured in the hub by a retention ring.
The pitch change mechanism is actuated by a threaded spindle, which moves a fork axially. The spindle is turned by an electric DC-motor. Pitch change blocks made out of special carbon material and moving in the slots of the fork connect the blades' pitch change pins with the fork. This transfers the axial movement into a turning motion. Distance rings act as mechanical stops limiting the pitch range.

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