Aerodynamic evaluation of circulation control propellers

Abstract

The aerodynamic compatibility of fixed-pitch circulation-control (CC) propellers with the performance characteristics and requirements of a 1600 kg (3600 lb) single-engine variable-pitch propeller general aviation airplane was evaluated. The initial results with elliptical-shaped CC airfoils indicated that the feasibility of application to fixed-pitch propellers was doubtful for the class of airplane investigated (cruise speed of about 300 km/hr) and improbable for higher-speed airplanes. Supplemental data for a cambered circulation-control supercritical airfoil, which became available after completion of the initial evaluation, were subsequently analyzed and are included in the Addendum to this report. With the much superior aerodynamic characteristics of the CC-supercritical airfoil, elimination of variable pitch appears aerodynamically feasible for low-speed airplanes through the use of a moderate amount of upper-surface blowing near the trailing edge during cruise. Overall feasibility depends upon results of structural and systems-type analyses.