The first variable-pitch propeller developed in the United States was invented by Seth Hart and Robert I. Eustis of Los Angeles, California, and demonstrated in 1917. Possibly the second variable-pitch propeller in the United States, this 1920 controllable and reversible propeller is the product of the first government sponsored variable-pitch propeller development program. It was completed following a two year development at the Engineering Division, McCook Field, Dayton, Ohio, and is an improved version of a design submitted to the Army for evaluation in 1918 by Hart and Eustis. This propeller had a faulty blade retention system, and was unable to keep wooden or Micarta blades connected to the hub.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Date
1920
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PROPULSION-Propellers & Impellers
Designer
Seth Hart
Physical Description
Type: Two-Blade, Variable-Pitch, Wood and Metal
Engine Application: 112 kw (150 horsepower) Hispano Suiza engine
Dimensions
3-D (Propeller): 269.2 × 30.5 × 27.9cm, 48.5kg (8 ft. 10 in. × 1 ft. × 11 in., 107lb.)
Storage (Aluminum Pallet): 314.3 × 121.9 × 124.5cm, 284kg (10 ft. 3 3/4 in. × 4 ft. × 4 ft. 1 in., 626lb.)
Materials
Overall: Doped fabric, Paint, Laminated wood, Steel, Brass, Solder, Aluminum alloy
Hub: Steel
Blades: Fabric-covered Birch
Inventory Number
A19340025000
Credit Line
Gift of United States War Department, Air Corps Material Division
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
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