OSHKOSH, Wis. - Raisbeck Engineering has launched its new Composite 5-blade Swept Propeller for the King Air 350 in collaboration with Hartzell Propeller. Using Swept Blade technology as an integral part of its design, Raisbeck Engineering and Hartzell Propeller have teamed to develop and certify an advanced Structural Composite 5-blade Swept Propeller made of carbon fiber. Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval is expected soon, with production by Hartzell immediately following.
Designed to improve passenger comfort and performance, the aerodynamic blade design combined with advanced structural design, maximizes thrust therefore increasing performance while reducing noise for the King Air 350. "We’re very excited about this new composite propeller and what it offers customers in terms of performance and efficiency," said Lynn Thomas, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "We’ve teamed with Hartzell because of their years of experience and quality of manufacturing and standards. Raisbeck has had a long-term relationship with Hartzell and we are proud to work with them on this project."
"By taking advantage of the aerodynamic effect of blade sweep, the strength of lightweight structural composites and robotic manufacturing technologies, Raisbeck and Hartzell have greatly improved performance across the board in all flight phases," said Hartzell Propeller Executive Vice President JJ Frigge. Hartzell’s new five-blade swept propellers replace the standard Hartzell four-blade aluminum blade propellers.
Raisbeck’s Swept Blade technology optimizes airfoil efficiency allowing for a larger diameter propeller with less blade tip noise and a comfortable cabin environment. Other benefits include unlimited blade life, reduced maintenance costs with 6 years/4,000 hours TBO, 3 years/3,000 hour Warranty, increased takeoff acceleration and better landing deceleration and accel-stop. The Composite 5-blade Swept Propeller provides a total weight savings of 47 pounds compared to the current OEM propeller for the King Air 350.