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FAQ - Frequently asked questions
How to choose a DUC propeller for my aircraft?
The choice of a propeller is depending on the aircraft and the engine. As a first step, we recommend using the propeller selection tool on the homepage or in the section Support>Choose propeller. If your application is not given , thank you to send us your request using our contact form.
Should I use a spacer assembly ?
A spacer assembly is not necessarily required. An mounting spacer can have two different functions :
1 . Forward the propeller from the engine propeller-shaft to move the plane of the propeller (using a spacer)
Eg. when the propeller-shaft is inside the engine hood , impossible to mount the propeller. so the installation plane of the propelelr must be advance with a spacer.
2 . Adapting the pitch circle diameter (P.C.D) of the engine propeller-shaft with the P.C.D of the propeller (using an adaptor spacer )
Eg. On Continental O-200 engine , the P.C.D is SAE1 standard . The FLASH propeller has a P.C.D Ø101.6mm (Ø4 inches). Thus, the SAE1 adaptor spacer adapts the mounting.
See the documentation Propeller Placement Precautions.
Should I use a spinner on my aircraft? What size to choose?
The spinner is an important element for the engine cooling for tractives propellers. It is strongly recommended not to fly without spinner . If you use a different spinner not from DUC Propellers company, you need to ask the confirmation before mounting the propeller. The propeller is delivered to you with the appropriate screws. Changing screw is contrary to our recommendations except validation by manufacturers. The size of the spinner must be chose according the shape of the aircraft.
Are the screws supplied with the propeller ?
The DUC propellers are delivered with all the screws for direct installation on aircraft except for SAE1 & SAE2 mounting, hardware is extra. In other words, the M8 fastening screws of propeller are always provided to the appropriate length .
The propeller is assembled or disassembled it during the delivery ?
The DUC propellers are delivered in kit, packed in a box. The customer must install and adjust the propeller on his aircraft (or subcontract the activity to a reliable person). On special request, the propeller can be assembled and adjusted in our workshop for removal on site.
What are the parts that contains a propeller?
This description is generic for DUC propellers. Refer to the instruction manual of the considered propeller.
Propeller composition: 2 half-hub; 2, 3 or 5 the blades; 1 internal hub spacer; 1 hub clamping washer; 6 screw/nut for hub assembly; 6 screw/nut for propeller fixation.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
What benefits can I expect from a DUC propeller?
The Engineering Office of DUC Propeller designs innovative products to achieve high aerodynamic performance and low noise emission. Associated with own production of carbon composite processes, the mass is also a major asset products. These benefits may be more or less important depending on the type of aircraft equipped (Ex: Fast airplane, slow...). The best approach is to evaluate the performance of our propellers on your machine by making a test.
In addition, we take great care to after-sales of our propellers, generally appreciated by our customers.
What is the constant speed effect?
The “constant speed effect” is an aerodynamic effect from the design of the propeller blades. The result of this effect is to get similar performance of a variable pitch propeller (short takeoff, high climb rate and fligt speed) with a fixed pitch propeller. This effect is not based on the deformation of the blade, the aerodynamic shape only.
Your propellers are they certified ?
DUC propellers meet all ultralight & LSA regulation (EASA CS-LSA & ASTM 2506). However, they have not yet certifications for aircraft (EASA CS-VLA & CS-22). This work is in progress. DUC propeller meets all regulations ultralight & LSA (EASA CS-LSA & ASTM 2506). However, they have not yet certifications for aircraft (EASA CS-VLA & CS-22). This approach is in progress.
How to choose between a two-bladed or three-bladed?
Roughly, we can say that a propeller is sized to absorb the engine power to provide thrust. Thus, according to the engine power to equip and design of the blades, the propeller will be selected bladed or three-bladed.
Where are your products made?
All the design, manufacture and marketing of DUC products is made in France, at Lentilly near Lyon.
What is the potential hour flight propellers ?
The DUC propellers have an unlimited flight potential in normal operation.
To keep the unlimited potential, DUC Hélices has defined a TBO (Time Between Overhaul) for a propeller depending on its engine.
This TBO according the engine is indicated in the propeller instruction manual (see Applications section). In all cases, it may not exceed 5 years.
When more intensive use (flight school...), the value of the TBO can be doubled maintaining control at least every 2 years.
To achieve this, we propose to return the propeller to make a full control and ensure its proper use.
If no critical anomaly is detected, it is again credited with the same TBO and is returned to you.
As a reminder, there is no imperative logbook. But know that this control is offered as a service to our customers for continuing airworthiness and there is no obligation. In fact, security will not be affected. The deliveries costs of sending and returning will be payable by the customer.
TECHNICAL ADVICE & AFTER-SALES
How to adjust the pitch of my propeller and what value of angle degree?
When installing the propeller, it is necessary to minutely adjust the pitch of the propeller angle value for your aircraft and engines. Thus, DUC Propellers recommends using the adjusting tool (ref. 01-80-001) and a plastic mallet to allow rotation of the blades in the hub. A first level of calibration value is indicated in the instruction manual of the propeller. According to the aircraft, it may be adapted. Refer to the instruction manual of the propeller for more details on setting it.
What are the torque of my propeller screws?
Refer to the instruction manual of the propeller to validate this information.
For the FLASH propellers:
- Hub assembly screw = 30 N.m (3 kg/m)
- Two-blade FLASH propeller fixing screw = 22 N.m (2.2 kg/m)
- Three-blade FLASH propeller fixing screw = 25 N.m (2.5 kg/m)
For the SWIRL & WINDSPOON propellers:
- Hub assembly screw & Propeller fixing screw = 25 N.m (25 kg/m)
What maintenance for my propeller ?
Refer to the propeller instruction manual for detailed information.
It is recommended to regularly clean the propeller using the DUC cleaning treatment (ref. 01-80-003).
Also, the propeller can be protected during the parking phases by neoprene cover protection (ref. 01-80-002).
I have a problem with my propeller, what to do?
Whatever the kind of problem, it is recommended to stop flying and contact DUC propeller or a dealer for diagnosis.
In the case of damage, dismount and send the propeller directly at DUC company or through your dealer for repair.
What is the average time a repair at a service ?
The treatment of a service is usually within 1 to 2 weeks maximum from receipt of goods.
COMMERCIAL INFORMATION
Is it possible to try the propeller before the final purchase?
In the case of new or complex application, DUC Propellers proposes a propeller loan. All the DUC products is provided to the customer against a deposit. Shipping fees are the responsibility of the customer. The customer has a moderate delay (2-3 weeks max.) to test the aircraft performance with the new propeller. In case of success and approval from the client, the material is kept and deposit check cashed by DUC Propellers Company. In opposite, if it is decided not to keep the equipment, the customer returns the equipment at its expense to DUC Company. After verification, the deposit is refund to the client. SATISFACTION OR YOUR MONEY BACK
What is your average delivery?
The average delivery time propeller is in 2-4 weeks.
What methods of payment do you accept?
Payment by bank transfer, check and credit card are accepted.
What are the conditions of payment for my order ?
Payment when order allow the delivery of equipment (except negotiated agreement).
What are your sales terms and conditions ?
10. General terms of sale
10.1. Ordering procedure Orders placed by fax, by phone or mail server engage the customer upon receipt by our Customer Service Order and the Regulations.
10.2. Delivery DUC Hélices Company agrees to make every effort to deliver the order within the shortest time, and the receipt of the order together with the Regulation. The delivery times indicated on the order are only indicative and the possible delays do not entitle the buyer to cancel the sale, to refuse the goods or claim damages. Any claim for non-compliance or failure will be sent within one week following the date of receipt of order. The DUC Hélices Company is released from its obligation to deliver for all fortuitous events or force majeure. As an indication, the total or partial strikes, floods, fires are cases of force majeure. The transfer of ownership of goods supplied or delivered is suspended until full payment of price by the customer and without affecting the transfer of risk.
10.3. Price The DUC Hélices Company may change its prices at any time. The customer agrees to pay the purchase price in effect at the time of order entry. Regulation Order is payable in advance in one payment when sending the DUC Hélices Company purchase order.
10.4. Right of withdrawal Under Article L121-16 of the Consumer Code, the customer shall have seven clear days after the delivery of his order to return the products to the DUC Hélices Company for exchange or refund, without penalties except for the return costs. Returned products must not have suffered modification, damage consequence of shock or improper use and be packaged in original packaging. Goods shipped with postage due will not be accepted.
10.5. Warranties The DUC Hélices Company's products must be installed and used in accordance with instruction manuals provided. No changes can be made without the prior approval of the DUC Hélices Company. The failure of these data releases any liability of the DUC Hélices Company and makes non-warranty the considered products. The user is still flying under its sole responsibility. The legal guarantee of industrial products is six months or for the potential duration of the helix (depends on which engine it is installed) against defects and hidden defects. See the section 2. Applications to determine the potential value of an hour's flight engine. DUC Hélices Company guarantees its product defect under normal use in the manner described below: If the customer finds a defect, he must report it immediately to the DUC Hélices and features of one months after its purchase to return to society DUC Helices, all structural defects will snuff into account (except for damage result of incorrect operation, shock, injury, impairment or neglect, water or generally inappropriate use by the engine type, power, speed and gear). To qualify for this warranty, the customer must send at its expense within one month after its purchase to be returned to society with DUC Hélices delivery order attached to the product. In return, the DUC Hélices Company takes no responsibility for damage or loss during transit due to improper or inadequate packaging. The company DUC Propellers then returned at his expense to the customer at the address on the delivery note, an identical or equivalent. In addition to these guarantees, the company DUC Hélices provides no other warranties.
10.6. Privacy Policy All the data you entrust to us are able to process your orders. Under Law No. 78-17 of January 6, 1978 relating to data, files and freedoms you have with the customer service company DUC Hélices right to access, review, correct, correct and delete data you have provided.
10.7. Litigation Any order placed convincing the customer, without any restriction, the General Conditions of sale of the DUC Hélices Company. Any dispute concerning the sale (price, GTS, product ...) will be subject to French law before the Tribunal de Commerce de Lyon.
What is the warranty on your products?
Refer to the terms and conditions above.
Pouvez-vous reprendre mon hélice DUC d’occasion ?
The DUC Company is not able to return DUC propeller used. It is recommended to sell through the usual sales channels through the internet. Upon specific request, a check may be made prior to the sale or purchase of second-hand propeller.
How to become a DUC dealer or DUC authorized workshop/service center ?
Thank you to send us your request using our contact form.
I want my details appear on this website , what to do?
Thank you to send us your request using our contact form.
I would like to work or do an internship at DUC Hélices company, what to do?
Thank you to send us your request using our contact form.
I can not find the answer to my question, how?
Thank you to send us your request using our contact form.
