How are wooden propeller blades protected from wear and damage?

Wooden propeller blades are protected from wear and damage primarily through the use of metal tipping fastened to the leading edge. This metal tipping serves several critical purposes. First, it enhances the durability of the propeller's leading edge, which is particularly vulnerable to erosion from air and foreign particles. The leading edge is the first part of the propeller that encounters airflow, and this exposure can lead to chips, dents, and overall deterioration over time.

By using metal tipping, the propeller is better equipped to maintain its aerodynamic efficiency and integrity throughout its operational life. The metal creates a tough barrier that can withstand impacts and abrasion while preserving the underlying wooden structure of the propeller blade.

The other options, while they may provide some form of protection or aesthetic enhancement, do not offer the same level of effective wear resistance that metal tipping does. For instance, paint may protect against moisture but does not significantly prevent physical wear. Plastic coatings can add a layer of protection but might not address the specific wear experienced on the leading edge as efficiently as metal tips. Rubber edging could provide some cushioning but is less effective at preventing damage from the kind of forces experienced during flight. Thus, metal tipping is recognized as the most effective protective measure for wooden propeller