Large Aircraft Propeller Dating From The First World War, Circa 1916–1917.

Large aircraft propeller dating from the First World War, circa 1916–1917.

This aircraft propeller, dated to around 1917 and attributable to the First World War period, is made of laminated walnut, a technique commonly used at the time to optimize mechanical strength and dimensional stability. The assembly of thin strips of wood, oriented along the grain, limited deformation under centrifugal stress and improved structural integrity during rotation. The blade profile, progressively twisted from the hub to the tip, demonstrates an aerodynamic design aimed at maintaining an effective angle of attack along its entire length, compensating for variations in peripheral speed. The varnished finish provides both protection against moisture and a reduction of micro-irregularities on the surface, contributing to aerodynamic efficiency. The central hub has the holes for mounting on the drive shaft. The marking "-10-12" could correspond to a step indication or an internal manufacturing reference.