Procedure For Ship Propeller Renewal

Propeller is the most significant machinery system of the ship. No matter what type of
propeller it is, ship owners never make compromises on such important equipment as it
directly affects the efficiency and safety of the vessel. Here we discuss about fixed pitch
keyless propeller renewal.
Why is propeller renewed?
There are various reasons for which a ships propeller could be renewed. Some of the
significant reasons are:
1) Damage to the propeller
2) Dynamically unbalanced
3) Renewing the existing propeller with a new propeller that is of better material, larger
blade area etc.

Below we will learn about the procedures involved in renewing a propeller.

Before decoupling the intermediate shaft and the propeller shaft (tail shaft), make
thorough inspection of the propulsion system. Generally, the shaft jack up test is done
before removing the intermediate shaft.

Fig 1. Jack up test arrangement

Figure 2: Displacement VS. Load

Important points on Jack up test:
1) In jack up test we actually jack up the shaft to get vivid picture of the bearing reaction,
the results need to be corrected
2) Hence, it is advised to place the hydraulic jack close to the bearing for better accuracy
3) To verify the results, ABS reaction Coefficient matrix can be referred wherein the
expected gradient of the average line in the curve is tabulated (see the above figure).
Once the Jack up test is done, Intermediate bearing cap is removed, and then the
intermediate shaft is removed prior to which the tail shaft is secured. It is very important
to protect the bearing area. Necessary pad eyes need to be welded, make sure
redundant pad eyes are welded and lifting arrangements are sufficient to take the load of
the intermediate shaft. Another important thing to note is the location where the
intermediate shaft can be secured.

Figure 3: Intermediate shaft removal

Figure 4: Intermediate shaft removal

Once the intermediate shaft is removed and secured in a safe location in the ship, check
the condition of the plumber block bearings. Look for any white metal debris or contact
marks.

Image 5: Intermediate shaft bearing

The tail shaft removal is done in the dry dock.
For this, the first step is to cut the rope guard and keep it aside. Propeller cone is to be
removed and then slack the aft stern tube seal (prior to which stern tube oil need to be
drained).
Then propeller nut is removed (make sure reference point is marked on the tail shaft)
and the propeller is secured prior to the tail shaft removal.
Lifting and shifting arrangements need to be pre-planned.
Remove the forward stern tube seal and then pull the tail shaft and shift to the lifting
zone; in some cases tail shaft can be removed through the skylight but in most cases it
requires cutting ship side shell for access. Tail shaft is carefully pulled out through the
stern tube and removed through the access. It is advised to perform NDT on the tail shaft
taper area.

Figure 6: Tail shaft removal

Figure 7: Tail shaft removal

Propeller Tail Shaft Bedding
Propeller and tail shaft bedding reveals how good is the contact. This is done by applying
Prussian blue to the tail shaft tapered area. The tail shaft is then lifted vertically and
matted to the propeller hub which is positioned horizontally. The contact area in the hub
is visually examined and the class requires at least 70-80% of contact. Blue mark zone
on the hub is polished and process is repeated until you get 70-80% fit.

Figure 8: Propeller tail shaft bedding

Figure 9: Propeller tail shaft bedding

Propeller Mounting
On completion and satisfaction of propeller bedding, tail shaft and other accessories that
are removed are installed back. Then the propeller is mounted. This is a significant stage
and careful attention is paid during the same. Here we will discuss about the oil injection
method for a keyless propeller mounting.
1) Clean the propeller boss and the propeller shaft
2) Slide the propeller to the propeller shaft and align to the match marks. (Prior to this
step, remember to record the temperature of propeller boss and propeller shaft)
3) Screw in the Pilgrim Nut

4) Dry fit: Actuate the high-pressure pump connecting the Pilgrim nut, allow the propeller
to slide in to certain distance and set the dial indicator to zero. The maker always
recommends initial load
5)Wet fit: Then actuate the high pressure pump connecting the propeller boss expansion
oil port and simultaneously actuate the nut pressure pump. Raise the pressure gradually
until the predetermined push up length is achieved (determination of push up length is
explained below)
6) Once the required push up length is achieved gradually release the pressure of boss
expansion port and then release the nut pressure
7) Remove all the connections and plug both propeller boss port and pilgrim nut port
8) Remember to take shaft jack up test post the installation
9) Verify the coupling alignment using sag and gap method

Propeller mounting arrangement

Figure 10: Propeller push up arrangement

Figure 11: Propeller push up arrangement

Calculation of predetermined push up length (as recommended by IACS)

Alternatively, there are graphs provided by manufacturer, which can be used in lieu of the
above-mentioned formulae recommended by the class.
Permissible push up length can be captured for the corresponding temperature.
Conclusion
Propeller renewal is not about removing the existing propeller and just installing the new
one, there are many other significant factors to overcome. Following are important points
to be taken care of:
1) Good interference fit to transmit the torque: Damaging factor here is the varying
temperature and differential thermal expansion of the propeller hub (bronze) and
propeller shaft (steel).
Thermal expansion coefficient of bronze is about 10 and steel is about 7 (in 10 -6
in/Fahrenheit). This will affect the fitting, hence keeping all this in mind required push up
length is calculated such that the sufficient friction is achieved to transmit the torque.

2) Reduced stress on propeller hub and propeller shaft: Von misses stress should be less
than 0.7 times yield stress of propeller material. Von misses criterion is one of the most
commonly used failure theory.
To assess the von misses stress:
1) Derive the stress elements
2) Find the principal stresses (Mohrs circle)

3) From the principal stresses von misses stress can be derived (for 2d). If it is greater
than the yield strength, then the material fails. It is just a simple explanation about von
misses stress. Taking all these into account, maker represent the minimum push up
length graphically.
Note: The above description of propeller renewal may slightly vary with ships but
underlying concept is similar in all the cases.
Over to you..
Do you know about more points that can be added for the propeller renewal procedure?
Lets know in the comments below.
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TAIL SHAFT SURVEY

Guide Notes on Tail shaft Survey

1. Propeller Shafts
1.1 Propeller Shaft Clearances - Measurement
Periodical docking surveys and periodical propeller shaft surveys are incomplete without
propeller shaft clearances. These may be determined as bellows:

When the shaft is removed for survey or maintenance, by calibration of journals

and bearing bores.

When bearing is exposed with shaft in place for partial survey or seal
maintenance, by leveler gauges, or soft wood wedge driven between shaft and
bearing then measured with calipers.

Normal running condition, by poker gauge comparing readings with previous

measurements.

In normal running condition, by lifting shaft and measuring the lift by dial gauge
(Less accurate). Case needed to avoid undue force. Assessment of poker gauge
readings can only be made if records of the previous readings are available and
the relative shaft clearance is known. Poker gauge readings taken in isolation
produce no reliable value of bearing clearance.

NOTE: When stem tube bearings are renewed or re-metallic, clearances will be back to
original. On refit, it is essential that these clearances are recorded and also the
corresponding new poker gauge readings for future comparison.
With most modem stem tube seal designs, the poker gauge measures from the seal box
OD to the seal sleeve OD. Hence, whenever the seal is fitted with a new sleeve or the
sleeve is machined, the poker gauge readings as fitted should be recorded in
conjunction with the measured clearance, by feeler gauges, calibration or both, since the
bearing will be accessible during seal overhaul.

1.2 Propeller Shaft Clearances - Initial and Maximum Allowed

1.2.1 The following clearances are intended for the guidance of Surveyors.
Recommendations of designers and manufacturers may differ and the Surveyor should
take notice of these in deciding whether departures from the values given here are
justified.
In the case of initial clearances drawings should be checked and for special materials
such as Tufnol the manufacturers technical information should be heeded to allow for
expansion of the bearing material on submersion in water.

1.2.2 Propeller shafts running in white metal bearings - oil lubricated.

1.2.3 Propeller shafts running in lignum-vitae or "Tufnol" type lined bearings water
lubricated:

NOTE: The stern gland should be repacked or at least partially repacked at each
periodical bottom survey.
1.2.4 Propeller shafts lubricated by grease.

1.3 Crack detection of propeller shafts

1.3.1 Area to be crack detected.

1.3.2 Crack detection may be by dye penetrant method or magnetic particle method.
Magnetic particle inspection is preferred because it is more sensitive when properly
carried out.
In both cases the area to be checked must be thoroughly cleaned. Where possible a
qualified technician is preferred working to recognized standards.

The sensitivity of the magnetic particle inspection is easily checked using a field strength
indicator (burmah castrol strip).
If cracks are detected and not easily removed by light polishing it is advisable to check
the crack depth by ultrasonic before proceeding.
1.3.3 It is allowed to reduce the rule diameter by 3 % (corresponding to a decrease in
torsion strength of 10 %) by machining or grinding. Therefore if crack depth deeper than
1.5 % or shaft diameter (shaft being rule size) the shaft shall be rejected. Repairs of
corroded or cracked shafts within limits given above shall be smoothly ground out to
reduce stress concentrations to a minimum. The hollows should be filled with propriety
metal filler if in way of sealing rings etc.
Slight surface defects (corrosion or cracks) can be machined out provided that rule
diameter is not reduced by more than 3 %.
1.3.4 In the case of a propeller-shaft in normal steel and the propeller hub in stainless
steel, the holes of the propeller-flange and the propeller-flange itself have to be carefully
inspected for electric-chemical corrosion.
Seawater has to be avoided and adequate protection is to be foreseen.

1.4 Repairs to Propeller shaft cone

Corrosion on the conical part of the propeller shaft may be repaired by machining the
taper.
This will result in the propeller moving forward which must be contracted by fitting a
spacer between the shaft couplings. The maximum thickness allowed for this spacer is
25 % of the intermediate shaft flange thickness. It is therefore the intermediate shaft
flange thickness which determines the maximum amount which can be machined off the
cone.
e.g. Intermediate shaft coupling flange thickness 100 mm, then maximum spacer which
may be employed = 25 mm, if propeller shaft taper = 1 in 12 the radial amount which may
be machined = 25/12= approx. 2 mm.
Surface contact of propeller bore to shaft cone should be checked using Prussian blue.
There should be a minimum of 70 % contact equally distributed.

NOTE: As well as rectification of the damage, the cause must also be determined and
repairs and preventative action taken to avoid a recurrence. The usual source of
leakages are from a badly jointed and sealed lairing cone on the ack of the propeller or
leakage past the sealing ring and/or gasket on the forward face - ensure the O ring is
the correct size so that compression and sealing is achieved.
All free spaces between propeller shaft cone, propeller boss, nut and propeller cap are to
be filled with a material insoluble in sea water and non-corrosive.

1.5 Protection of propeller shaft against corrosion

Arrangements are to be made to allow any air present in these spaces to escape at the
moment of filling. It is recommended to test these spaces under a pressure at least equal
to that corresponding to the immersion of the propeller in order to check, after filling, the
tightness obtained.

1.6 Propeller shafts with bronze liners

1.6.1 General
Always check carefully the inboard part of the shaft where water from the stern gland
may have caused corrosion cracking, characteristic X-shaped fissures particularity on the
coupling Flange filled. This part of the shaft is best protected by a special coating.
Beware also of electro-chemical corrosion in the region of the end of the liner.
The bronze liners protect those parts of the shaft which would otherwise be in contact
with sea water.
Continuous liners -either in one piece or in several sections cover the shaft from forward
propeller boss to forward part of the stern gland. Parts of liner most liable to wear are
those in way of stern gland packing, or the liner can be eroded by vibration or hammering
of the shaft. Su objected to torque reaction with the shaft; the liner can crack (on its
surface, or in other places). Cracks may also result from occasional over-heating. Sea
water can seep through the cracks and cause rapid corrosion of the shaft.

Other types of corrosion are the result of liner assembly. Liners are generally held to tail
shaft by shrinkage. Shafts are submitted to helical stress and it is unlikely that the same
distortions are equally applied over the whole length of liner.

Such fretting is often the cause of corrosion noted under aft extremity of liners where sea
water filters in. What has been said about shaft and liner relative motions is also true for
liner sections connected by (hammered or shrunk) red copper joints. Connections of two
adjacent liner sections are submitted to torque reactions and if copper joints no longer
ensure the necessary water tightness: corrosion is then frequent under joints and
adjacent area.

1.6.2 Checking the fit and condition of liners

The Surveyor shall hammer test the liner and joints between sections - bearing in mind
that liners may be chamfered beyond the bearing surfaces and will, therefore, give a
different sound, not to be mistaken with that of a slackening liner.
Slackness is usually noted at extremities of liner. It may be caused by heating (of aft
bearing, gland) or cracks in liner.
The Surveyor shall also examine carefully the surface of the liner for cracks or porosity,
and if in doubt, he will carry out a non-destructive check.
Any cracking or slackening of the liner (especially all, next to propeller) or loosening of
copper joints will result in corrosion of the shaft.
for such defects, loose copper joints will need to be withdrawn and the liner surface in
way machined off and other corroded areas should also be machined so that the shaft
surface can be inspected.
The Surveyor will also check the bearing surface and wear in way of bush(es) and stern
gland.

1.6.3 Renewal/Repairs of liners

Cracks, wear
Fully penetrating cracks always imply renewal of damaged part of liner.
Fissures can be machined down provided that liner's thickness remains within the limits
given below for wear, otherwise the damaged part shall be renewed.
Major wear means that liner is unlit for use; the maximum wear allowed being as follows:

25 % of rule thickness in way of the bearing area.

50 % of rule thickness in way of out the stern-gland.

These measurements shall be taken alter machining of corroded or ribbed areas of the
liner. When damage (fissures or wear) is important and requires the renewal of the liner,
the Surveyor shall proceed as for the liner of a new shaft.
The new liner or liner sections ordered shall be submitted to the Societys factory
inspection test (quality of material, hydraulic test), and liner lit and good condition (no
defects) shall be checked alter machining.
When renewal of the liner is not necessary and it is difficult or impossible to change only
a section of it without removing the part of liner in good condition, it is often easier to
have the damaged part re-metallic.
Some yards can replace the damaged liner portion by two hail shells fitted on to the shaft
and welded together longitudinally. Any such repair shall be submitted to Technical Office
for approval.

1.6.4 Ribbing in way of the stern-gland

Ribbing requires the complete - or part renewal of the liner only if thickness inside of
grooves is inferior to hall the regulation thickness. When ribbing is slight, however, i.e.
when depth of grooves is 3 mm, liner shall be machined over the whole length in way of
aft stuffing box.
Slight ribbing needs only to be filed down or smoothed away with emery cloth.