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How did World War 2 planes shoot through the propeller?
A synchronization gear (also known as a gun synchronizer or interrupter gear) was a device enabling a single-engine tractor configuration aircraft to fire its forward-firing armament through the arc of its spinning propeller without bullets striking the blades.
How did ww1 planes not shoot the propeller?
There are many different types of synchronization gear, but the simplest involves an irregular-shaped disk that triggers the gun to fire once per revolution, at a specific point. This produces a high rate of fire without the risk of hitting the propeller.
How did the BF 109 cannon work?
The Bf-109 (all models) made use of a reduction gearbox to transfer power to the propeller from the engine. The gearbox’s shape allowed the power shaft (to which the propeller is mounted) to be hollow, and therefore allow a cannon-breech to fire through it.
Why do some planes still use propellers?
Propellers are more efficient at low speeds. They also offer a number of advantages at low altitudes. That’s why propellers are still used, and likely will always be used, for short duration commuter flights and certain cargo planes.
Which fighter aircraft had a hub cannon?
Fighter aircraft built in France, Germany and Soviet Union which were powered by V12 engines had hub cannon. That’s three major aircraft producers. USA didn’t believe in cannon, hub or otherwise. Not much point in having a hub mounted M2 .50cal MG. Except for Ki-61 all Japanese fighter aircraft were powered by radial engines.
What is the history of the propeller cannon?
The French started the through the propeller cannon idea in WW I with a 37mm cannon (single shot) through the prop hub of a Few Hispano V-8 powered fighters. The French were the major proponents of this during the 20s and early 30s.
When did the US start using cannon on aircraft?
The US military establishment officially recognised the necessity of using cannon on aircraft as early as 1936. It sent research groups to Europe to see what was being done there and began work on its own cannon. The USAAF actually ordered 40,000 20 mm cannon before Pearl Harbour.
What was the engine of the Messerschmitt 109?
It was powered by a liquid-cooled, inverted-V12 aero engine. It was called the Me 109 by Allied aircrew and some German aces, even though this was not the official German designation. It was designed by Willy Messerschmitt and Robert Lusser who worked at Bayerische Flugzeugwerke during the early to mid-1930s.