Hartzell Propeller recently received a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for its specially designed three-blade high performance Talon prop for installation on Extra 300L two-seat aerobatic aircraft. The Talon features an enhanced aerodynamic design coupled with Hartzell’s state of the art ASC-II™ resin transfer carbon fiber process.
The Talon’s launch customer was Michael Goulian, who has been flying the propeller on his single seat Extra in air shows for several years. “I have made a living flying Hartzell props in aerobatic shows and very competitive air races for years,” Goulian said.
“My flights with Hartzell’s Talon showed an increase in performance, while also contributing to crisper execution of the aerobatic maneuvers that are the hallmark of my show. The smoothness and responsiveness of this propeller is second to none,” Goulian added.
Performance Boost
The 78-inch diameter Hartzell Talon replaces the standard wood core three-blade propeller to provide a 2.5 percent increase in takeoff acceleration, five percent decrease in takeoff distance, and a five percent increase in climb performance. Hartzell’s blade technology results in low weight, low inertia, higher durability, and low life cycle costs.
The Talon consists of a unique monocoque structure of advanced composite material, consisting of carbon fiber laminates integrated into a co-molded stainless-steel shank. The outboard half of the leading edge is protected with a co-molded electroformed nickel erosion shield.
The Talon is available from prop shops, FBOs, or direct from the Hartzell Top Prop sales program. List price for the prop, spinner and STC paperwork is $29,301. Time Between Overhaul (TBO) is six years or 1,000 hours, whichever occurs first.
Aerobatic pilot Kevin Coleman recently completed his first flight with the new Hartzell Talon on his aerobatic Extra. “Climbing out, it felt really smooth, which those of you who’ve flown a big pumped-up motor know that they’re not always smooth. This is definitely the future of aerobatic airplanes right here,” Coleman said.
“It is beautiful the way Hartzell designed these blades. Going into aerobatics, it definitely has more pull. It just goes harder. It gets out of the hole faster which is really good for aerobatics. It has good braking,” he added.
The Extra 300L is a Lycoming AEIO-540-powered two-seat aerobatic aircraft, with low-mounted wing and shorter fuselage. More Extra 300L aircraft have been produced than any other model. Its wing is mounted at the bottom of the fuselage. The 300L is certified under FAA and European Joint Aviation Authorities regulations.
