What type of propeller is driven by the power turbine?

The type of propeller driven by the power turbine is commonly a four-bladed propeller. This configuration provides a balance between performance and efficiency, allowing for effective thrust generation. Four-bladed propellers are designed to enhance lift and reduce noise, while also improving the overall handling characteristics of the aircraft.

In aviation, the number of blades on a propeller can affect its performance, including factors such as drag, efficiency, and the ability to manage higher power outputs from the turbine. A four-bladed propeller often strikes an optimal balance for various flight regimes, providing adequate thrust while minimizing the risk of cavitation and other performance limitations seen in configurations with fewer blades.

Higher blade counts, such as five-bladed options, may be used in specific applications where additional performance is required, but they also come with trade-offs in complexity and weight. Conversely, fewer blades, such as two or three, might not provide the same level of performance at higher power outputs as a four-bladed propeller would. Thus, the association of the four-blade configuration with power turbines in designs reflects both established practice and practical aerodynamic principles.