Composition and Parametrization of a Digital Twin of a Propeller Control System using Physical Modelling

Constant-speed, variable pitch propellers are widely used in medium to large aircraft, where the shaft power typically exceeds 100 kW. These propellers are usually hydraulically actuated, and their speed kept constant by means of a valve controlled by a centrifugal governor. In this paper, a digital twin of the pitch control system of a TPE331 turboprop engine is developed through physical modelling with the purpose of identifying its dynamic behavior. The operation of the system in both beta mode and flight operating mode is shown, and a comparison with experimental data is presented.