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Propeller Pitch Calculator

Work out propeller pitch instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.

About Propeller Pitch Calculator

Propeller pitch is the distance the blade would advance in one revolution if it moved through a solid. Theoretical speed is pitch times RPM converted to distance per hour; real speed is lower by the slip, the difference between geometric advance and actual advance caused by the blade working against a fluid.

Formula

Pitch speed

Speed (mph) = pitch (in) x RPM x 60 / 63360, then reduced by the slip percentage

Worked example

With the default values below, Propeller Pitch Calculator returns Speed through the air of 93.93. Change any input above and every figure here is recalculated in your browser.

Inputs used

Propeller pitch
58 in
Propeller RPM
2,400 rpm
Slip
18 %

Results

Speed through the air
93.93 kt
Theoretical (no slip) speed
114.55 kt
Advance per revolution
47.56 in
Speed
108.09 mph

Step by step

  1. 1Values used
  2. 2Pitch speed
  3. 3Speed through the air= 93.93 kt
  4. 4Theoretical (no slip) speed= 114.55 kt
  5. 5Advance per revolution= 47.56 in
  6. 6Speed= 108.09 mph

Assumptions and limits

  • The result is derived only from the 3 inputs listed above. Anything not among them is not part of the calculation.
  • In particular, this calculator does not take inflation, tax, fees or charges or compounding frequency into account.
  • Figures are rounded for display to 2 decimal places, so totals built from several rounded parts can differ slightly from the unrounded arithmetic.
  • Aviation results are planning estimates only. Always verify take-off, landing, fuel, weight and balance figures against the certified Aircraft Flight Manual, current performance charts and applicable aviation regulations before flight.

How these calculators are built and tested is described on the Methodology page. If a figure looks wrong, please report it.

Aviation results are planning estimates only. Always verify take-off, landing, fuel, weight and balance figures against the certified Aircraft Flight Manual, current performance charts and applicable aviation regulations before flight.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a typical slip figure?

Aircraft propellers commonly run 10-20% slip in cruise, marine propellers 15-45% depending on hull type and loading.

Does more pitch always give more speed?

Only if the engine can still reach its rated RPM. Over-pitching bogs the engine down, losing both RPM and thrust.

Related Calculators

Propeller Pitch Calculator – Calculate Speed through the air