E-Props vs Kiev on a Highlander: 36% Less Weight and Faster Quarter-Mile Acceleration
A new E-Props DURANDAL propeller has arrived in the Just Aircraft Highlander community, generating enthusiasm and bringing some interesting real-world performance comparisons against a Kiev propeller.
A New DURANDAL Propeller for Dave’s Highlander
Dave recently shared photos of his newly received E-Props DURANDAL propeller, ready to be installed on his Just Aircraft Highlander.
His enthusiasm was clear:
“So exciting the parts are starting to arrive, the E-prop looks amazing and with everything bolts and all 4.8 pounds Wow!“
Technical Specifications
Dave’s new propeller is an E-Props DURANDAL three-blade, ground-adjustable-pitch propeller, designed for geared aircraft engines.
The installation also includes a lightweight carbon spinner, measuring 220 mm (8.66 inches) in diameter and weighing approximately 380 g (0.8 lb).
The combination of carbon composite construction, titanium leading-edge protection, and low overall weight makes the DURANDAL particularly interesting for lightweight STOL aircraft.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Propeller | E-Props DURANDAL |
| Reference | DUR-3-190-C4-T |
| Aircraft | Just Aircraft Highlander |
| Engine compatibility | Rotax 912S / 912iS |
| Gearbox ratio | 2.43:1 |
| Diameter | 190 cm / 74.8 in |
| Propeller weight | 2.2 kg / 4.8 lb |
| Construction | Carbon composite |
| Leading-edge protection | Titanium |
| Pitch | Ground adjustable |
| Recommended initial pitch | 20.5° |
| Moment of inertia | 3,100 kg·cm² |
Real-World Comparison: E-Props vs. Kiev
The discussion became even more interesting when fellow Highlander pilot Jeremy shared his experience after switching from a Kiev propeller to E-Props.
Significant Weight Savings
Jeremy reported the following propeller weights:
- E-Props: 6.84 lb (3.10 kg)
- Kiev: 10.74 lb (4.87 kg)
That represents a weight reduction of 3.90 lb (1.77 kg), or approximately 36%, based on Jeremy’s measurements.
These figures refer to Jeremy’s installation and may include different components from Dave’s 4.8 lb propeller specification.
Reducing weight at the propeller is especially valuable for aircraft designed around lightweight construction and responsive handling.
Acceleration: E-Props Ahead in the Quarter-Mile Test
Jeremy also shared performance reports recorded with the Fly Test application, comparing his previous Kiev propeller with E-Props.
The screenshots below show the following results:
| Performance measurement | Kiev | E-Props | Improvement |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60 ft | 2.96 s | 2.81 s | 0.15 s |
| 330 ft | 7.82 s | 7.45 s | 0.37 s |
| 1/8 mile | 11.66 s | 11.16 s | 0.50 s |
| 1/8-mile speed | 64.28 mph | 67.09 mph | +2.81 mph |
| 1,000 ft | 14.93 s | 14.29 s | 0.64 s |
| 1/4 mile | 17.68 s | 16.93 s | 0.75 s |
| 1/4-mile speed | 81.90 mph | 85.46 mph | +3.56 mph |
The E-Props setup completed the quarter-mile acceleration test 0.75 seconds faster, with a 3.56 mph higher finishing speed.
The results indicate improved acceleration throughout the measured distance.
More Speed and Smoother Operation
Beyond the acceleration measurements, Jeremy reported improvements in overall flight performance.
He explained:
“Went a second faster to 60mph. Went a second faster to the 1/4 mile mark and went from 95 to 102 GS.“
He also reported a gain of approximately 2 mph in maximum speed.
Another important observation concerned smoothness and noise.When Dave asked how the E-Props compared with his previous Kiev propeller, Jeremy replied:
“Definitely smoother and sounds better on the gearbox when you shut it down.“
This subjective feedback is particularly interesting because propeller behavior can influence vibration and perceived mechanical noise throughout the propulsion system.
Lightweight Engineering for STOL Aviation
The Just Aircraft Highlander is well known among backcountry and STOL enthusiasts, where low weight, responsive acceleration, and efficient propulsion are highly valued.
The E-Props DURANDAL combines several features suited to these applications:
- Ultra-lightweight and very strong carbon composite construction
- Titanium leading-edge protection
- Ground-adjustable pitch for installation-specific optimization
- Low rotational inertia
For Highlander owners looking to reduce propeller weight and optimize their propulsion system, the DURANDAL offers an attractive solution.
Thank You to the Highlander Community!
We would like to thank Dave and Jeremy for sharing their photos, measurements, and feedback with the Just SuperStol and Highlander community on Facebook.
We look forward to hearing more about pilots experience once their E-PROPS are installed and flying!
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