Molly Ayala
The direction in which electric RC propellers are mounted is crucial for the aircraft's performance. RC propellers come in various sizes and types, such as standard rotation (MR) and reverse rotation (MRP), and the choice depends on the motor's rotation direction. The left-hand threaded propeller (MRP) should be mounted on a clockwise rotating motor, while the right-hand threaded propeller (MR) is for counter-clockwise rotating motors. Additionally, the propeller's thrust direction should be considered. The convex side of the propeller should face forward, and the mounting direction depends on whether it is a pusher or puller propeller.
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What You'll Learn
Propeller direction: convex side forward
Propellers are designed to function in a specific way, and mounting them correctly is crucial for the aircraft's performance and safety. When dealing with electric RC propellers, one common guideline to follow is to mount them with the convex side forward. Here's a detailed explanation of this concept:
Understanding Propeller Design
The propeller's design is based on the principles of aerodynamics, specifically the concept of "lift" generated by the rotation of the propeller, also known as the "wing." The cross-sectional shape of the propeller is similar to an airfoil, with the upper surface being more convex than the lower surface. This shape is intentional and plays a crucial role in the aircraft's performance.
The Convex Side and Thrust Generation
The convex side of the propeller is crucial in generating the thrust or pull force. This force is produced due to the difference in airflow speeds and pressures on the upper and lower surfaces of the propeller. By mounting the propeller with the convex side forward, you ensure that the aircraft moves in the intended direction. The convex side faces the direction of the aircraft, and the thicker end of the propeller corresponds to the leading edge, which should also be oriented forward.
Mounting Guidelines and Best Practices
When mounting electric RC propellers with the convex side forward, follow these guidelines:
- Direction of Flight: Ensure that the convex side of the propeller faces the direction of the aircraft's flight. This is a fundamental rule to follow.
- Propeller Rotation: The thicker end of the propeller should be the leading edge, and it should rotate in a specific direction to create forward thrust. This rotation can be set by plugging in the motor and adjusting it accordingly.
- Standard Rotation (Props In): In traditional aircraft configurations, the propellers at the front left and rear right spin clockwise, while the propellers at the front right and rear left spin counterclockwise. This is known as "Props In" or standard rotation.
- Motor Direction: The spin direction of the motor and propeller should match. If they don't, you can adjust the motor's direction by swapping any two of its three cables.
- Tightening: When tightening the propeller, use the inner portion of the blades to avoid damaging the blades. Left-hand threaded propellers (MRP) should mount to clockwise rotating motors, while right-hand threaded propellers (MR) should mount to counter-clockwise rotating motors.
- Safety Precautions: Always exercise caution when working with propellers and aircraft. Do not plug in a battery with a prop mounted until you fully understand its behavior.
By following these guidelines and ensuring that the convex side of the propeller is facing forward, you can achieve optimal performance and safety for your electric RC aircraft.
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Prop adapter types
Prop adapters, also known as "prop adaptors", are used to securely attach a propeller to the shaft of an electric brushless motor. Many electric motors designed for multirotors come with their own prop adapters, but they can also be purchased separately.
There are three main types of prop adapters, each with a unique way of attaching to the shaft or motor bell:
- Bolt-on prop adapters: These are attached to the motor shaft or bell using bolts. They are considered to be more secure and tend to have fewer balance and vibration issues compared to other types of prop adapters.
- Grub screw prop adapters: This type of adapter is attached to the motor shaft using grub screws, which are tightened against a filed area on the shaft to prevent the adapter from rotating loose. It is recommended to use Loctite Glue with each grub screw before fastening.
- Collet prop adapters: This is one of the most common types of prop adapters. It has a collet that grabs the smooth motor shaft when the propeller nut and washer are tightened down. Collet prop adapters have an all-around contact surface with the shaft, creating enough friction to hold them tight. However, they may come loose during flights, especially when used with powerful motors and large props.
When choosing a prop adapter, it is important to consider the type of motor and propeller being used, as well as the security and balance of the adapter. Additionally, it is crucial to ensure that prop adapters are securely fastened before each takeoff to avoid endangering the aircraft and reducing motor efficiency.
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Propeller rotation direction
For a standard setup, the propeller should be mounted with the convex side facing forward. This setup, known as a "tractor" or "puller" configuration, ensures that the propeller generates forward thrust when spinning in the counter-clockwise direction. In this configuration, the leading edge of the propeller is away from the motor.
For a reverse setup, where the motor is mounted at the rear of the aircraft, the propeller's direction of rotation becomes crucial. In this case, the propeller should be set up as a "pusher" propeller, with the leading edge towards the motor. The spin direction of the propeller and the motor should be the same (counter-clockwise) to generate forward thrust. If they rotate in opposite directions, the thrust will pull the plane backward.
It's important to note that some motors can only run in one direction, typically those used in setups like swamp buggies with rear-facing glow engines. In such cases, a pusher propeller is necessary to achieve the required thrust direction. However, for electric planes, a standard propeller facing forward can be used, and the motor direction can be reversed if needed.
When dealing with multi-rotor aircraft, the left-hand threaded propeller (MRP) should mount to the clockwise rotating motor, while the right-hand threaded propeller (MR) is intended for the counter-clockwise rotating motor. This ensures that the propeller is securely attached and does not spin off during operation.
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Motor shaft thread
When mounting electric RC propellers, it is important to consider the direction of the motor's rotation and the propeller's thread. The direction of the motor's rotation will determine the type of propeller that should be used.
For a clockwise rotating motor, a left-hand threaded propeller (MRP) should be used. This type of propeller has threads that run in a counter-clockwise direction, allowing it to mount securely to the motor shaft. Conversely, for a counter-clockwise rotating motor, a right-hand threaded propeller (MR) is appropriate. This type of propeller has threads that run in a clockwise direction, ensuring a proper fit.
The propeller should be mounted so that the numbers or markings on it face in the direction of flight. This ensures that the propeller will create forward thrust when the motor is engaged. It is also important to ensure that the propeller is securely attached to the motor shaft. This can be achieved by using a threaded screw or a propeller adapter, along with a tightening mechanism such as a nut or collar.
In some cases, it may be necessary to drill out the propeller to accept the threaded part of the motor shaft or adapter. It is important to tighten the propeller enough to secure it in place without crushing or damaging the propeller or the motor shaft. Additionally, it is recommended to refer to the instructions provided with the motor, as they may include specific recommendations or requirements for propeller size and type.
For RC boats, propeller shaft kits are available that include a shaft, sleeve, and propeller. These kits are designed to fit specific motor shaft diameters and are made of corrosion-resistant and wear-resistant materials. It is important to choose the correct kit size to ensure compatibility with the RC boat's motor.
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Propeller mounting position
Understanding Prop Adapter:
A propeller adaptor, also known as a "prop adapter," is required to securely attach the propeller to the electric brushless motor's smooth bare shaft. Many electric motors designed for multi-rotors come with prop adapters, and some even have integrated ones. However, if you lose it or it's not included, you may need to purchase one separately. Prop adapters are usually made of aluminium, a soft metal, so be cautious when fastening nuts to avoid damaging the thread.
Types of Prop Adapters:
There are different types of prop adapters available, each with a unique way of attaching to the shaft or motor bell:
- Bolt-on Adapter: This adapter works if your motor has bolt-on adapter mounting holes. It uses grub screws to attach to the motor shaft, and these screws are tightened against a filed area to prevent the adapter from rotating loose. It is recommended to use Loctite Glue with each grub screw before fastening.
- Collet Prop Adapter: This is a common type of adapter that uses a collet to grab the smooth motor shaft when the propeller nut and washer are tightened down.
Mounting the Propeller:
When mounting the propeller, ensure that the numbers or markings on the propeller face in the direction of flight. This ensures that the propeller creates forward thrust when plugged into the motor. The left-hand threaded propeller (MRP) should mount to the clockwise rotating motor, while the right-hand threaded propeller (MR) should mount to the counter-clockwise rotating motor.
Reversing Motor Direction:
If your motor spins in the wrong direction, you can simply switch any two of its three cables. For electric planes, you do not need a pusher propeller; you can mount a standard propeller facing forward and reverse the motor direction if needed.
Propeller Size and Rotation Direction:
The size of the propeller is dependent on the voltage of your battery. Higher voltage batteries require smaller propellers to stay within the power limit of the motor. The rotation direction of the propeller also plays a role. For a twin-engine plane, you can have a clockwise propeller on one side and a counter-clockwise propeller on the other.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a propeller adaptor, also known as a prop adapter, to securely attach the propeller to the shaft. The threaded shank and collar go on the motor shaft, then the propeller, and then the acorn nut tightens it all down.
The convex side of the propeller should face forward. The numbers on the propeller should face in the direction of flight.
The direction of the propeller spin depends on the type of propeller and motor. The left-hand threaded propeller (MRP) should mount to the clockwise rotating motor. The right-hand threaded propeller (MR) should mount to the counter-clockwise rotating motor.
You can change the direction of the spin by swapping any two of the three cables connecting the motor and ESC.
There are three common types of propeller adapters: bolt-on adapters, grub screw adapters, and collet prop adapters. Bolt-on adapters are best if your motor has bolt-on adapter mounting holes. Grub screw adapters are used for motor shafts with a filed area. Collet prop adapters are used if your motor doesn't support bolt-on adapters or have a filed surface on the shaft.
