propellerpitch

Propeller pitch refers to the distance a propeller would move forward in one revolution if it were moving through a solid medium. It is typically measured in inches or millimeters. The pitch of a propeller is a critical design parameter that affects its performance, particularly at different speeds and engine RPMs.

A fixed-pitch propeller has a single, unchangeable angle for its blades. Variable-pitch propellers, on the other hand, allow the blade angle to be adjusted. This adjustment can be done manually by the pilot or automatically by a mechanism, often called a constant-speed propeller. Variable pitch offers advantages such as improved fuel efficiency and better performance across a wider range of operating conditions, including takeoff, climb, and cruise.

The relationship between propeller pitch, engine speed, and aircraft speed is fundamental to understanding propeller function. A higher pitch generally means the propeller is designed to move more air per revolution, which can lead to higher speeds at lower engine RPMs, but may require more torque to turn. Conversely, a lower pitch is often suited for higher engine RPMs and is beneficial for acceleration and climbing. The correct propeller pitch for a given aircraft and its intended use is determined through careful engineering and performance calculations.