AboutPaul Soderman Expertise Aeronautics, Fluid Mechanics, Aeroacoustics, Noise Control, Muffler Design, Wind Tunnel Research.... I know nothing about India - do not ask about schools, jobs, application requirements, career choices, etc. for India. Please, no text message verbiage; I prefer full words in full sentences. Thanks.
Experience 38 years as research engineer at NASA
Publications AIAA, NASA
Education/Credentials B.S. and M.S. Aeronautical Engineering - U. of Washington
Graduate work Standford U.
Awards and Honors AIAA Associate Fellow (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics)
Question Hello Paul,
I'm building an experimental plane and considering conversion to a diesel engine. I'm trying to establish a break even (if there is any) between the advantage of the higher torque on a propeller against a lower shaft power (smaller engine, lighter).
What could you suggest as a first way forward to have a quick evaluation on feasibility of such a project.
Kind regards, Martin
Answer Martin
You haven't given me very much information. How do you get higher torque with less shaft power ? I am not an engine expert so may not be able to help you anyway. Generally, you need high torque for takeoff when the propeller is working hard. The requirement depends on the propeller performance curves and the aircraft takeoff weight and drag and takeoff distance. To really analyze this you need someone who can evaluate your propeller versus aircraft takeoff and cruise requirements.
Paul
