What is the measure of propeller power output?

The measure of propeller power output is referred to as Thrust Horsepower. This term quantifies the effective power produced by the propeller in order to generate thrust for the aircraft. It is calculated by multiplying the thrust produced by the propeller by the velocity at which the aircraft is moving through the air. This metric is crucial for understanding how effectively the propeller is converting engine power into forward motion.

Thrust Horsepower specifically accounts for the power that is harnessed to produce thrust, which is a key factor in determining the performance of the aircraft. By focusing on the thrust produced and the speed of the aircraft, it provides a more direct representation of the propeller's performance in comparison to total engine power or brake horsepower, which encompass the overall power output of the engine without focusing solely on the propeller's role in generating thrust.

In essence, understanding Thrust Horsepower helps pilots and engineers evaluate the efficiency of a propeller in converting engine power into the thrust that propels the aircraft forward, making it a critical component in aircraft performance analysis.