Propeller production conceptions

The requirements for propeller production are derived from desired hydrodynamic performance and mechanical properties. The usual requirements are shown to be sufficient for low and medium-speed vessels. For high-speed propellers cavitation is the determinant factor which is expected to evoke a trend towards more severe tolerances. An outline of the production process is given. Problem areas are identified. Production concepts are derived, based on the idea that a high-precision casting should be aimed at. The consequences for production methods are elaborated. It is shown that for the production process to be optimum with regard to quality and efficiency, an integration is needed of mechanisation, computerized information processing and quality control. The proposed production conceptions, which already showed substantial improvements in quality and profitability, have been partly implemented.