This artifact is from a collection of propellers used by Professor David L. Gallup in 1911 experiments conducted at the Alden Hydraulic Laboratory of the Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Worcester, Massachusetts.

The Gallup whirling arm experiments were one of the first comprehensive attempts to test the efficiency of propellers in the world. In 1912 the same testing apparatus was used by MIT student Frank W. Caldwell, who went on to become a leader in the development of propeller technology in both government and industry.

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

Country of Origin

United States of America

Type

PROPULSION-Propellers & Impellers

Manufacturer

Worchester Polytechnic Institute

Physical Description

Type: Two-Blade, Fixed-Pitch, Wood
Diameter: 242.6 cm (95.5 in.)
Chord: 36.8 cm (14.5 in.)
Engine Application: Unknown

Dimensions

Rotor/Propeller: 242.6 x 36.8 x 10.2 x 8.6 x 1.3 x 3.2cm (95 1/2 x 14 1/2 x 4 x 3 3/8 x 1/2 x 1 1/4 in.)
4 Boltholes.

Materials

Wood
Putty
Varnish
Steel

Inventory Number

A19300073000

Credit Line

Gift of Alden Hydraulic Laboratory (Worcester Polytechnic Institute)

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
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