McCauley Propeller Systems has completed wind tunnel testing of its C1106 propeller that equips Textron Aviation’s new Beechcraft Denali turboprop single. The powered wind tunnel testing was completed at Ruag’s facilities in Emmen, Switzerland. The Denali made its first flight in November. 

The 105-inch, five-blade, constant-speed propeller from McCauley features composite blades and is full feathering with reversible pitch and ice protection. The wind tunnel testing provides McCauley key information on performance and aerodynamic characteristics in addition to data for the development of future propellers and aircraft concepts, the division of Wichita-based Textron Aviation said. Further, the testing contributes important experimental validation of the Denali propeller design.

McCauley said full-scale and model-scale tests were conducted to allow for 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 McCauley v-p and general manager John Dandurand.