12-07-2020, 11:54 AM
Propellers.....A silent assassin. This seemingly harmless item is just that ,until it is rotating at around 8 to 10,000 rpm. Any unforeseen flaws within the prop can show up with devastating results. Anyone who has witnessed a prop explode will never forget it !! It happens so fast and without warning. Props should be removed and checked with magnifying glass on a regular basis , especially if it is older and has had a difficult life..... All materials have a finite lifespan . A common practice that I see regularly is for bystanders to stand beside or in front of an aircraft being started and run up. This .action would appear innocent enough till an injury or a death occurs. Another situation that I have witnessed was a four stroke that would backfire on startup or in flight and spit the prop off. I don`t remember the reason now ,as it was many years ago . Brian C
