A comparison of post-stall models extended for propeller performance prediction

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to analyse different post-stall models, originally developed for use in wind turbine codes, and extend their use to the propeller performance prediction.

Design/methodology/approach

Different post-stall methods available in the literature were implemented in JBLADE software. JBLADE contains an improved version of Blade Element Momentum theory, and it is appropriate for the design and analysis of different propellers in off-design conditions.

Findings

The preliminary analysis of the results shows that the propeller performance prediction can be improved using these implemented post-stall models. However, there is a lack of accuracy in the performance prediction of some propellers. Further comparisons including distribution of forces along the blade may help to better understand this inaccuracy of the models, and it will be studied in future work.

Originality/value

The work has extended the use of the post-stall models to the propeller performance prediction codes. It is shown that these models can be used to obtain an improved prediction of the propeller’s performance.

Citation

Morgado, J., Silvestre, M.A.R. and Páscoa, J.C. (2016), "A comparison of post-stall models extended for propeller performance prediction", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 88 No. 4, pp. 540-549. https://doi.org/10.1108/AEAT-07-2014-0119