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Propeller Pitch Speed Calculator

Compute the theoretical pitch speed of a propeller from RPM and pitch.

Propeller

Speed unit

Result

Theoretical pitch speed
68.2mph
(109.73 km/h)

Theoretical pitch speed — never equal to real aircraft or boat speed.

Formula

  1. 1.Pitch Speed (mph) = Propeller RPM × Pitch (inches) / 1056
  2. 2.km/h = mph × 1.609344

Worked example

  1. 1.Inputs: 12,000 RPM, 6 inch pitch.
  2. 2.Advance = 72,000 in/min; speed = 72,000 / 1056 ≈ 68.2 mph ≈ 109.8 km/h.

Assumptions and limits

  • Real speed is lower after slip and drag.
  • Theoretical ceiling only — not a predicted top speed.

Related tools

Guides and concepts

FAQ

Is pitch speed my real airspeed?

No — propeller slip and airframe drag make real speed lower.

Assumptions

  • Propeller RPM is the shaft speed, not motor RPM through a gearbox.
  • Slip is not modeled.