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Rotol introduced the R130 propeller for the Vickers Viscount airliner in 1954. The R130’s electrically-actuated hub mechanism and square-tipped aluminum alloy blades were a departure from Rotol’s previous hydraulic and composite designs of World War II. The thin, rectangular blades were designed to absorb high energy and efficiently turn it into thrust while offsetting compressibility losses. The electric constant-speed mechanism dated back to when Rotol licensed the American Curtiss Electric design in 1937.

Four R130 propellers and Rolls-Royce Dart Mk. 510 turboprop engines powered the 700D and 800 series of the Vickers Viscount, the first turboprop airliner to enter passenger service, beginning with British European Airways and eventually serving airlines throughout the world. Rotol’s parent companies, Rolls-Royce and Bristol, sold Rotol to the Dowty Group in 1958.

 Display Status

This object is on display in World War II German Aviation at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.

World War II German Aviation
Object Details
Country of Origin United Kingdom Type PROPULSION-Propellers & Impellers Manufacturer Dowty-Rotol
 Physical Description Model: R 130/4-20-4/12 E Type: Electric constant-speed, full-feathering, and reversible Number of Blades: Four aluminum alloy blades and steel hub Diameter: 10 ft (3.04 m) Weight: 132.5 kg (292 lbs) Engine Application: Rolls-Royce Dart Mk. 510 turboprop engine rated at 1,298 kW (1,740 shp) Manufacturer: Dowty Propellers, Gloucester, England, 1950s Dimensions Rotor/Propeller: 304.8 × 28.6 × 45.7 × 63.5cm (10 ft. × 11 1/4 in. × 1 ft. 6 in. × 2 ft. 1 in.)
Blade Length: 57"
Height with stand: 114"
Stand depth: 52.25"
Weight: 292 lbs (132.5 kg) [propeller = 276 lbs, spinner = 14 lbs, prop nut and split spacer = 2 lbs]
 Materials Aluminum alloy, Steel, Paint, Rubber, Plastic, Adhesive, Paper
 Inventory Number A19690277000 Credit Line Gift of United Air Lines. Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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