Raisbeck Engineering announced this week they had received their Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval from the FAA for the new Composite five-blade Swept Propeller for the Beechcraft King Air 350.
The composite five-blade Swept Propeller, designed to improve King Air comfort, performance and efficiency, was developed in collaboration with Hartzell Propeller (announced back in July). At 106 inches in diameter, Raisbeck’s composite five-blade Swept Propeller reduces weight and contributes to improved short field and climb performance, while providing strength and durability expected from modern composites. The new composite propellers have an extended 3,000-hour, three-year warranty and unlimited blade life.
“This is a significant milestone in our journey to market entry for a composite five-blade Swept Propeller,” said company CEO and Chief Financial Officer, Tony Armstrong. “We couldn’t be happier and our new propeller will further enhance the King Air 350 performance. We believe King Air operators will truly enjoy flying with these new propellers”
The company received FAA Parts Manufacturing Approval (PMA) following STC approval and propellers are available for immediate delivery.
According to Raisbeck, the aerodynamic blade design which optimizes airfoil efficiency combined with carbon fiber structural design, maximizes thrust therefore increasing performance while reducing noise for the aircraft. The composite five-blade Swept Propeller provides a total weight savings of 47 pounds compared to the current OEM propeller for the King Air 350.
(Source: Raisbeck Engineering)