THE use of reverse-pitch propellers to assist in braking of large, high-performance landplanes, the authors report, has many advantages for commercial airline operators.
Weight savings are appreciable. For instance, they state that by applying reverse-pitch propellers to the 100,000-lb B-32 airplane, a net weight saving of 407 lb weight empty is realized.
There are other advantages, however, that the authors say can be attained, such as greater safety, efficiency, and passenger comfort.
For these advantages to be gained, the authors warn that the proper techniques of landing, using the reverse-pitch mechanism and brakes, must be used. They also believe it to be desirable that positive control surface locks be installed and that power steering be used. It appears further that steel blades should be used to withstand normal and sometimes severe abrasions.
