14 novembre 2023

Reduction of wear on propeller shafts

Réduction de l'usure des arbres d'hélice
Savings
Extended warranty periods for propeller shaft components, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and replacement.
This improvement in component lifespan can lead to annual savings of tens of thousands of euros per boat.
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
MarketShipping & Offshore
Lubrication PointPropeller shaft / bearing lubrication
Used ProductEurol Grease CS-2/501                                  
Eurol Grease CS-2/101
Article numberS005120 
S005110
Product UsageHydraulic 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.