M-T Tests 11-Blade Prop

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • M-T Propellers developed an 11-bladed propeller, which demonstrated a 15% increase in static thrust and an "impressive noise and sound signature" likened to a jet during tests on a Piper Cheyenne.
  • The company highlights the propeller's potential to open new possibilities for performance, efficiency, and noise reduction.
  • This propeller system is envisioned for future integration with low RPM turbine or electric engines rather than as a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for existing aircraft.
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M-T Propellers says its 11-bladed design delivers increased thrust with “an impressive noise and sound signature.” The German propmaker says it put the turbine-like device on a Piper Cheyenne fitted with P&W PT6A-135A engines and flew it a couple of months ago. “The very promising results in static thrust, 15% increase over the standard certified 5-bladed propeller, and the jet-noise signature showed another time what could be possible in the propeller developments,” the company said in a statement. Hear that “jet-noise signature” in the company video.

It seems unlikely the prop will be offered as an STC on existing aircraft, however. “The propeller system, combined with a low RPM power supply from a turbine or an electric engine, opens new possibilities for performance, efficiency, and noise,” the company said. 

Russ Niles

Russ Niles is Editor-in-Chief of AVweb. He has been a pilot for 30 years and joined AVweb 22 years ago. He and his wife Marni live in southern British Columbia where they also operate a small winery.
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