Hartzell Propeller recently received a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for its specially designed three-blade high performance Talon prop for installation on Extra 300L two-seat aerobatic aircraft.
The Talon features an enhanced aerodynamic design coupled with Hartzell’s ASC-II resin transfer carbon fiber process, according to company officials.
The Talon’s launch customer was Michael Goulian, who has been flying the propeller on his single seat Extra in air shows for several years.
“I have made a living flying Hartzell props in aerobatic shows and very competitive air races for years,” Goulian said. “My flights with Hartzell’s Talon showed an increase in performance, while also contributing to crisper execution of the aerobatic maneuvers that are the hallmark of my show. The smoothness and responsiveness of this propeller is second to none.”
The 78-inch diameter Hartzell Talon replaces the standard wood core three-blade propeller to provide a 2.5% increase in takeoff acceleration, 5% decrease in takeoff distance, and a 5% increase in climb performance, company officials report. Hartzell’s blade technology results in low weight, low inertia, higher durability, and low life cycle costs, officials add.
The Talon consists of a monocoque structure of advanced composite material, consisting of carbon fiber laminates integrated into a co-molded stainless-steel shank. The outboard half of the leading edge is protected with a co-molded electroformed nickel erosion shield.
The Talon is available from prop shops, FBOs, or direct from the Hartzell Top Prop sales program. List price for the prop, spinner and STC paperwork is $29,301. Time Between Overhaul (TBO) is six years or 1,000 hours, whichever occurs first.