Review on Numerical and Experimental Research on Conventional and Unconventional Propeller Blade Design

Abstract

This paper reviews the research conducted on propeller blades based on the performance evaluation method and available design. The review includes the propeller blades used for aircrafts, unmanned aerial vehicles, marine vehicles and wind turbines, as the working principle remain the same, differing only in operating conditions. Both experimental and numerical methods were discussed to provide a reliable procedure to investigate the performance of propeller blades. In addition, the propeller blades design was discussed, including conventional and unconventional blade designs. Blade shape, chord length and twist angle are the basic parameters for optimization method on conventional design. Optimization managed to improve propeller performance at an impressive rate. Many designs are currently being developed allowing more possibilities for blade design advancement.