Hartzell and Piper are working to certify a new five-blade composite propeller for the Meridian and M500 piston singles.
(Photo: Piper)
Piper Aircraft and Hartzell Propeller announced they are jointly working on a new five-blade composite propeller for Piper’s Meridian and M500. The companies expect to complete approval for a supplemental type certificate by year-end.
Speaking at the EAA AirVenture show in Oshkosh, Wis., Piper sales and marketing vice president Drew McEwen said that the new propeller will boost climb rate and decrease noise, “with the added benefit of elevating ramp aesthetics.” The Hartzell prop will be available as a factory-installed option for the latest M500 model once certified. It also will be a retrofit option for existing Merdians through the STC.
According to Hartzell, the composite blades will be certified for unlimited life and are five to 10 times stronger than wood-core blades. They feature a stainless steel shank, nickel cobalt leading edge and mesh erosion screen for protection against foreign object damage. The five-blade design for the Piper aircraft is 15 pounds lighter than the current factory-installed propeller and 10 pounds lighter than similar wood-core props.
(Charles Alcock - AINOnline News)
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