Propeller calculators are online software tools that help you determine the ideal diameter and pitch for a specific navigation application. When entering your boat’s engine information, the desired performance result and the total weight of a propeller will be recommended to you. There are also calculators that calculate the power that each turn of the propeller will give the boat.
The software available to calculate the pitch or diameters of the fittings comes with a pre-set integrated database. They calculate speed, slip, pitch, rpm, and gear ratios after entering the required information in a lookup section. The software has useful ‘Help’ options and the reports provided by the calculator can be printed.
Calculators calculate percentages or requirements for all types of propellers. Calculations can be obtained for outboard and inboard engines, gasoline and diesel engines, 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines, 3-blade, 4-blade and five-blade struts, stainless steel and aluminum struts and for different types of boats such as aluminum . flat bottom boats, cruise ships, speedboats, skiers, fishing boats and pontoon boats.
The various measurements provided by these calculators include propeller size, pitch setting, shaft taper, slip and speed calculations, gear ratio, and propeller rpm. Calculators are modern and useful calculation methods with almost perfect precision. Since calculators are computer programs, the calculation is automatic and easy to use. Digital reading on calculators has made calculators even easier to use. They help provide accurate information on propeller size and performance.
Another useful propeller tool is the Propeller scan. This is a computer based propeller inspection system. Scanning reduces the time spent diagnosing propeller performance problems. Problems are quickly detected and the propeller can be modified or repaired with precision. The scan provides an accurate reading of the problem and this helps correct vibrations and slippage when repairing the accessory.
The tools needed to remove and repair struts are screwdrivers, ratchets, hammers, and many other automotive tools. It is important to have a replacement accessory for potential collisions with underwater obstacles and to learn the basics of accessory replacement as a safety measure. A pair of rubber gloves is necessary when handling a boat propeller because the blades can be very sharp.
The digital age has impacted the ship propeller industry and there are many digital calculators and automated tools available to help boaters choose the right propeller for their unique needs, diagnose problems, and repair propellers with great precision. For repairing and replacing propellers, traditional automotive tools are the most effective. However, experts believe that the boater should not repair the accessories. Skilled technicians will have the knowledge and experience to repair your propeller to precise specifications. Boaters should carry a spare emergency propeller with the same configuration as the propeller in use and replace the propeller rather than attempting to repair the propeller.
A propeller with precise computer-calculated specifications and carefully equipped with traditional tools according to the specifications in the engine manual will provide hours of excellent propulsion for the boat.