Introduction To Aircraft Propeller Maintenance

Out of every component on an aircraft, the propellers are often the most stressed part, facing around 10 to 25 tons of centrifugal force during normal operation. Because of this stress and wear, it is very important to conduct regular inspections and maintenance of propellers. With proper maintenance, aircraft propellers will see the longest amount of life expectancy and save money.

Most damage that propellers face are either through corrosion or physical damage. Both external and internal corrosion eat away at components and can reduce performance and sturdiness. Surface compound corrosion includes corrosion caused by rain and sand, as well as pitting, which are cavities caused by trapped moisture. Physical damage includes things such as nicks and cracks that are often found through the naked eye, or by using inspection equipment. It is crucial that repairs for physical damage, such as nicks, are done carefully as to not file propellers under minimum requirements. Smoothing should be done as to not remove too much diameter, thickness, or width.

There are many ways in which Aircraft propeller and its components can be maintained so that they can avoid corrosion and damage, or to be able to catch these issues quickly. Washing blades and the propellers everyday, or after each use, is important to remove corrosive materials. Painting propellers regularly can also improve the life expectancy and protect them. It is also important to never try and straighten damaged blades by one’s self as it is illegal and dangerous. A quick way to know when the blades may be damaged is when they do not rotate closely together in the same plane. Propellers are an extremely important component of aircraft, and when they face the need for inspection and repair, it is important to send them to an FAA certified repair facility.