thrust horsepower
physics
Quick Summary
Thrust horsepower (THP) is a measure of power specifically related to propulsion systems like airplane engines, jets, and rockets. It represents the actual power delivered to move a vehicle.12
There are two main contexts for thrust horsepower:
- Propeller-driven aircraft: THP is the power output of the engine-propeller unit. It's less than the engine's "brake horsepower" because propellers are not 100% efficient in converting engine power into thrust.13
- Jet engines and rockets: THP is calculated by multiplying the engine's thrust (in pounds) by the aircraft's speed (in miles per hour) and dividing by 375.14
This is distinct from brake horsepower, which measures an engine's power at its output shaft before any losses from propellers or other propulsion mechanisms.34
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