Propeller Thrust

How much thrust does a propeller make? Momentum theory reveals why big, slow-turning props and rotors are so much more efficient than small ones.

Propeller ThrustLive

actuator-disk theory

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Presets

Power (kW)

Diameter (m)

Airspeed (m/s)

Momentum theory treats a propeller as a disk that accelerates the air passing through it, and the reaction is thrust. For a given power, a bigger disk moves more air more gently — producing more thrust at higher efficiency. That is why efficient props and helicopter rotors are large and slow, while jets accept lower efficiency for compactness and speed.

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Data Inspector

Thrust1383 N

Static thrust2498 N

Induced velocity6.1 m/s

Propulsive eff.83%

Governing equation

T = 2 ρ A (V + v_{i}) v_{i} \approx 1383 N, A = \frac{π}{4} (1.8)^{2} = 2.54 m^{2}

Reading this result: At 30 m/s the prop produces 1383 N at 83% efficiency; wasted energy shows up as the 6.1 m/s slipstream.

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How it works

Actuator-disk theory models a propeller as a disk that accelerates the air through it; the reaction is thrust. For a fixed power, a larger disk accelerates more air more gently, yielding more thrust at higher propulsive efficiency. This is why efficient propellers and helicopter rotors are large and slow, while jets trade efficiency for compactness and speed.

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Is this propeller thrust calculator tool really free?▾

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The solver uses established numerical methods, but results are for research and educational purposes and should be validated against experiment or professional review before you rely on them.