I posted this same comment, about the HP limitations but did not see it
come through on
the list. Larry Morgan of Vari-prop told me they are producing props up to
600 hp for
the military, just the specs are not reflected on the website yet. With
their prices @
$7k, vs $10k for a conventional CS prop, I would say they are a
competitive option. If
any one has Contact! #89, he said there were detailed photos and info
there. I'm waiting
for him to send me a copy of the article.
C. Smith

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Thanks Craig. If it is a fully sorted piece, well designed and built and
fully tested, $7k is indeed a very good price.  It may have been one of
theirs I looked it over at Perry's hangar that he tested on his 13B powered
EZ.

Assume it is electric?  Does Larry do his own controllers?  Weight? Other
construction specifics  and where the prop is in terms of development
experience, hours accumulated on what h.p engines and realistic review of
develop issues they've dealt with?

Steve Beckham

Steve, what I know from my telephone conversations with Larry.
It is hydraulic actuated, has it's own pump and control system. Design is fully mature, thousands of hours on UAVs for military contracts.
He did not disclose developement history.
HP working applications inclusive of 600HP operational, flying on UAVs.
A couple years back, I played with the demo at sun-n-fun. There is a failsafe with power loss to climb pitch, installed weight is 36-38 lbs depending on number of and diameter of blades. That includes the control/power unit.
Give 'em a call, I'm sure you could ask much more pertinant questions than I.

Pitch Control Systems
6648 SW 160th Ave
Beaverton, OR  97007
503-804-5508, or 714-321-4642

C. Smith