McCauley propels Beechcraft Denali forward, completes wind tunnel testing

McCauley Propeller Systems announced it has completed wind tunnel testing for its new C1106 propeller for the Beechcraft Denali single-engine turboprop, which successfully accomplished its first flight last month. Results from the propeller's comprehensive powered wind tunnel tests, which took place at RUAG's facilities in Emmen, Switzerland, provide key information on performance and aerodynamic characteristics, as well as data for the development of future propellers and aircraft concepts.

McCauley Propeller Systems is a division of Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. company.

Specially designed high-performance propeller

The clean-sheet design Denali is equipped with McCauley's new 105-inch diameter, composite, 5-blade, constant speed propeller, which is full feathering with reversible pitch and ice protection.

"Denali's first flight with our new C1106 propeller was an exciting landmark for the McCauley team," said John Dandurand, vice president and general manager, McCauley Propeller Systems. "This new propeller will provide owners and operators a great flying experience, offering performance and ramp appeal, combined with the craftsmanship, repairability and durability our customers expect from McCauley."

The completion of wind tunnel testing provides important experimental validation of the Denali propeller design. Full-scale and model-scale tests were conducted, providing back-to-back comparisons of operational and performance data.

"Through investments in the latest technologies and innovative engineering, we are developing and launching the next generation of McCauley propellers and aftermarket solutions," said Dandurand.