November 14, 2023
Reduction of wear on propeller shafts
Savings
Description of the Situation
The propeller shaft, along with the screw and engine, forms the drive line of a boat. The propeller shaft is housed in a shaft sleeve and is lubricated - just like the bearings and seals - for cooling, minimizing friction resistance, and keeping out seawater. However, the lubricants used previously were not resistant to seawater, causing the grease to wash away from the seals. This resulted in accelerated wear of the seals, corrosion on the non-brass parts of the propeller shaft, and damage to the bearings.
Specifications
| Market | Shipping & Offshore |
| Lubrication Point | Propeller shaft / bearing lubrication |
| Used Product | Eurol Grease CS-2/501 Eurol Grease CS-2/101 |
| Article number | S005120 S005110 |
| Product Usage | Hydraulic oil |
Solution
To reduce wear on propeller shafts, it is essential to use greases that are resistant to seawater. Currently, Eurol Grease CS-2/501 and Eurol Grease CS-2/101 are being used from production, depending on the system, type, and speed of the propeller shaft. The use of these greases has led to extended warranty periods for propeller shaft components by Hundested Propeller, thanks to the positive results. This has the potential for annual savings of tens of thousands of euros per boat, as evidenced by the case of the ferry Kulhuse-Lynaes.