Flash-R aircraft propeller offering

The FLASH-R is a three-blade, fixed-pitch aircraft propeller in an Inconel version from DUC Hélices, a French propeller manufacturer. It is a tractor propeller for piston-engined light aircraft in the 100 to 160 HP class, and it is offered in a version certified for use on Lycoming O-290 and O-320 engines. It converts shaft power into thrust through a three-blade fixed-pitch design for airframes that do not use a variable-pitch hub.

The maker describes the FLASH family as having a twist distribution and thrust center that were designed specifically for the range. The aerodynamic design gives a constant-speed effect: the difference in engine rotational speed between static conditions and flight is limited, so the engine can run at a higher speed on takeoff and climb and stay closer to its efficient range in cruise. For an operator this translates into better takeoff and climb performance and a propeller that is comfortable to use across the flight envelope. Compared with the same maker's SWIRL-3 profile, the FLASH-R uses a wider chord, which the maker links to better takeoff, rate of climb and landing performance.

The main figures are a diameter range of 1520 to 1900 mm, a weight of 5.60 kg and a rated power range of 100 to 160 HP. The diameter range indicates that the propeller is cut to length for the specific engine and airframe combination, so the final diameter is chosen at the order stage. A carbon-reinforced model is available for engines above 120 HP.

For installation, the product is the right-hand AN6 variant (listed as Droite, AN6), designed for a tractor configuration. The catalog gives the Cessna 150 with the Continental O-200 (100 HP) and the Cessna 172 with the Lycoming O-320 (150 to 160 HP) as example airframe and engine pairings. An instruction manual for the certified propeller is published with the product page.

The certified version holds three type certificates: EASA TC P.038, FAA TC P00040BO and CAAC VTC0371P. These cover the propeller as a type-certificated product for the stated engine installations.

Typical applications are certified light aircraft, such as trainers and touring aircraft, where an owner or maintenance organization replaces a propeller or installs one on a modification. Integrators of optionally piloted or unmanned fixed-wing platforms in this power class may also consider the product for its fixed-pitch simplicity.