The power coefficient (Cp) is a dimensionless parameter used in aircraft design and the study of propulsion systems, especially in the context of propellers and wind turbines. It quantifies the efficiency of converting the available power in the airstream into mechanical power by the propeller or wind turbine.
The formula for the power coefficient (Cp) is as follows:
- Cp is the power coefficient (dimensionless).
- Pout is the mechanical power output of the propeller or wind turbine (in watts, W).
- Pin is the power available in the airstream, which is related to the dynamic pressure and area (in watts, W)..