Table of Contents
Why did the B 36 have pusher props?
Pusher propellers keep turbulence out of the wings, reducing drag resistance – and it was designed to be an extremelly long range bomber. Jet engines were not available when it was designed during WWII, but were added later to improve dash speed, take-off and high altitude performance.
What direction does a pusher prop spin?
Reverse also known as P-type or pusher, direction of rotation is established when a propeller is rotating clockwise (CW), as seen by an outside observer standing in front of the propeller and looking at it.
How safe are rear mounted propellers on pusher aircraft?
Several safety considerations are worth examining: propeller strikes, visibility, and handling characteristics. As discussed above, rear mounted propellers on pusher aircraft are subject to increased prop strike risks both during takeoff and landing. The primary risk in both scenarios is over-rotation of the aircraft leading to a propeller strike.
Why do pusher propellers make so much noise?
The turbulent interactions of pusher propellers result in reduced efficiency and thus performance. It also typically increases propeller noise for both passengers and outside observers. The Beechcraft Starship is well known for its distinct howling noise as it flies.
Why do aircraft designers use pusher engines?
Aircraft designers consider safety effects of design choices, and engine position is no different. Examining several examples of pusher configured aircraft, a theme emerges: canards and flying wings. The pusher engine location on these aircraft preserves weight and balance considerations and avoids propeller positions near passenger compartments.
Are puller propeller layouts more efficient?
The Beechcraft Starship is well known for its distinct howling noise as it flies. Thus, all things being equal, puller propeller layouts are more efficient for a given engine and propeller combination. The most commonly installed turboprop engine in general aviation fleets, the PT-6A, is a “reverse flow” engine.