Constant Speed Propellers___________________________________________________________

References:
1. FAA-H-8083-3 (Airplane Flying Handbook)
2. AC 61-23 (Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge)
3. Pilots Operating Handbook (POH)
4. FAA Approved Airplane Flight Manuel

Objective To develop the students understanding of the principles involved in the operation of a
Constant Speed Propeller.

Elements 1. Fixed pitch propellers.

2. Changeable pitch propellers.
3. Controllable pitch propellers.
4. Power settings to avoid with constant speed propellers.
5. Feathering.

Schedule 1. Discuss Objectives 03

2. Review Material 02
3. Development 14
4. Conclusion 05

Equipment 1. White Board / Markers

2. Airplane Flying Handbook
3. Pilot’s Operating Handbook (POH)

IP’s Actions 1. Discuss lesson objectives

2. Present Lecture
3. Ask and Answer Questions

SP’s Actions 1. Participate in discussion

2. Take notes
3. Ask and respond to questions

Completion This lesson will be complete when the student demonstrates an understanding of the
Standards elements related to Constant Speed Propellers.

Constant Speed Propeller

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Instructor’s Notes: Constant Speed Propellers_______________________________________
INTRODUCTION:
WHAT? – A constant speed propeller system provides the pilot with ability to set a specific RPM which in turn
sets the propeller pitch angle.
WHY? – This ability to change the pitch and hold a constant RPM allows the pilot to obtain optimum efficiency
at various flight conditions.

OVERVIEW - This lesson will cover the basic elements pertaining to Constant Speed Propellers, including:
1.) Fixed pitch propellers.
2.) Changeable pitch propellers.
3.) Controllable pitch propellers.
4.) Power settings to avoid with constant speed propellers.
5.) Feathering.

DEVELOPMENT:
HOW?
1.) Fixed pitch propellers
A.) Pitch is fixed by manufacturer & cannot be changed
1. 2 types: (describe diagram prop efficiency Vs effective pitch angle)
a) Climb propeller - lower pitch, less drag capable of higher rpm and more rpm, thus performance
is increased on t/o & climb but decreases efficiency during cruise.
b) Cruise propeller - higher pitch, more drag lower rpm/less horsepower capability, thus decreases
performance on t/o & climb but increases efficiency during cruise.
2.) Changeable pitch propellers
A.) Constructed prop w/ changeable pitch. Pitch can be set before flight for either climb or cruise.
3.) Controllable pitch propellers
A.) System & propeller allows pilot to change pitch of propeller during flight to achieve maximum
efficiency.
1. Some are simpler w/ only two settings (climb/cruise)
2. Some are more complex - pilot sets RPM, which in turn sets the pitch. The governor maintains the
RPM constant.
B.) Controls in system:
1. Throttle - controls manifold pressure or engine output.
2. Prop control - sets RPM, which in turn sets, pitch.
3. Governor maintains rpm (describe governor diagram)
a) If engine RPM slows, governor decreases pitch to maintain set rpm
b) If engine RPM increases, governor increases the pitch to maintain set rpm
4.) Power settings to avoid with constant speed propellers
A.) Avoid high-engine output (high throttle) & low rpm setting.
1. This condition is similar to excessive speed while in first gear in a car - high stress on engine
components.
B.) When increasing power - prop first, then power (climb after cruise)
C.) When decreasing power - throttle first, then prop(maneuvering after cruise)
5.) Feathering
A.) The arrow cannot be feathered.
1. With a power loss the prop goes to a low pitch setting so that prop and engine continues to spin.
This allows the engine to be restarted w/out cranking the engine. The vacuum pump also continues
to operate which provides suction for the air driven gyros.
2. If a power off landing is imminent than the prop can be placed in the highest pitch setting to reduce
drag.

Constant Speed Propeller

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CONCLUSION

OVERVIEW
Discuss Elements, to include:
1.) Fixed pitch propellers.
2.) Changeable pitch propellers.
3.) Controllable pitch propellers.
4.) Power settings to avoid with constant speed propellers.
5.) Feathering.

PRIVATE PTS
Exhibit knowledge of systems on the airplane provided for flight test

COMMERCIAL PTS
Exhibit knowledge of systems on the airplane provided for flight test

COMPLETION STANDARDS:
This lesson will be complete when student has adequate understanding of Constant Speed Propellers.

Constant Speed Propeller

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