Prop Comparisons

[FlyBri737]

comparison

I have a file that has the drag comparison of different props.. This study was done by MIT.The Max 2 blade feathering was the winner for the least drag....If you would like a copy of the file email me atFlyBri737@aol.comBrian

 

[Cookie4167]

I and I am sure many others would like to see a comparison on the various type of props fixed, folding, feathering. The advantages and disadvantages of each type. There has been quite a few articles, but I have not found one that pulls it all together.

 

[Trevor - SailboatOwners.c]

Props

Hi Cookie -As you said, there has been much discussion on this topic in the past. It really comes down to what you value most in a prop - cost, drag, thrust (forward and reverse), flexibility, etc.Folding props typically provide the least drag under sail, but come up short when it comes to thrust, moreso in reverse. Fixed blade props can be fit to provide the best thrust under power in forward, but allow the most drag under sail. Feathering props are a good compromise that provide minimal drag and reasonable thrust (reverse is much better than folding or fixed). Of the feathering props, Max and Autoprop are the most popular - Max has flatter blades and provides a bit less drag than the Autoprop, but the Autoprop is self pitching and provides the best motor-sailing abilities. This is a synopsis based on my reading and ovservations - hope this helps!Best,Trevor

 

[Steve Dion]

That sort of sums it up.

Cookie:That sort of sums it up. Trevor's only omission was cost. The feathering props would be my first choice for overall performance and my last choice because of cost. If you have a larger boat, the cost is probably a lot more insignificant. The folders are much lower cost, but unless you are racing do not seem to give you much in the way of motoring performance. The obvious choice for a BUDGET minded sailor is going to be a fixed prop, which has it own set of problems.I would suggest you decide how much money a prop is worth to you and then narrow down your selections. I doubt that you are going to find any comparision that will relate to your specific sailing conditions. I think that Practical Sailor has some articles on this over the years, so you may want to check there first.

 

[Bob Polk]

Disagree on a few items

We have a 3 blade Flexofold. It has better performance in forward and reverse than the previoud 3 blade fixed prop. Also has almost no sideward thrust that causes walking in reverse. See info in attached link. Ive heard similar comments on Auto PropsThe old Matec folding props used on many racing boats did have problems in reverse - but the newer folding props are excellent.