M-T Tests 11-Blade Prop

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • M-T Propellers has developed an 11-bladed propeller design, tested on a Piper Cheyenne, showing promising results.
  • The new propeller demonstrated a 15% increase in static thrust over standard 5-bladed propellers and features a unique "jet-noise signature."
  • This technology is not expected for existing aircraft via STC but is aimed at future designs, particularly those powered by low RPM turbine or electric engines, to improve performance, efficiency, and noise.
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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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