Aircraft Spruce is now distributing the DynaVibe dynamic propeller balancing kit worldwide.
The original DynaVibe was designed over 10 years ago for, and used almost exclusively on, Rotorway helicopters. Roughly three years ago, the team at RPX Technologies, decided to offer its propeller and rotor balancing kits to all of GA.
According to the RPX team, there is a staggering number of airplane owners and mechanics who are unaware of fatigue caused by unbalanced propellers or rotors. This may be caused by a common misconception of what it means to have a propeller statically balanced during a prop overhaul, and having a propeller dynamically balanced once it is mounted to the engine, according to company officials. In fact, roughly 80% of pilots believe their vibration levels are normal after their prop has been overhauled. Elgin Wells, Starjammer pilot, went on record to say this after his prop had been dynamically balanced: “Wow, I can’t believe the difference! I didn’t realize how rough my ride was, assuming that much of the vibration was coming straight from the engine.”
Dynamic balancing will only be beneficial if it is performed on airworthy props, rotors, and engines, company officials add.
Properly balanced engine installations offer a number of advantages over unbalanced equipment. The most significant advantage is in the longevity of components associated with the powerplant.
The RPX team recommends having your props dynamically balanced immediately after every prop overhaul and bi-annually if possible. If your plane operates a wooden propeller, more frequent dynamic prop balancing is required due to the frequent changes moisture can cause on wooden props.
For more information: RPXTech.com
