FP system

Type FP – propeller system with fixed pitch propeller

Type FP is a propeller system with fixed pitch propeller. This is the safe choice for all vessels and can be calculated to fit most vessels and applications.

For most vessels the FP propeller system is the best and simplest solution due to the high effeciency, normally minimum 3 % higher effeciency than a CPP for the range where it is desgned. In addition it is a much cheaper solution than a CPP propeller system both regarding purchase cost and installation cost. There is almost no maintenance on a FP propeller system and spare parts are much cheaper. Regarding weight this system also have a big advantage compared to the CP propeller system.

We recommend the WM-FP for most vessel like passenger vessels, smaller tugs, vessel with electrical propulsion, yachts (not sailing yachts), vessels with not to big load variations, vessels where speed is limited by hull and not how much it is loaded.

On the other hand be aware that it cannot offer the functionality of the controllable pitch propeller. Some vessels needs a controllable pitch propeller (CPP) to operate according to demands that are set for the actual vessel.

This can be i.e. for vessels with large load variations, with need for an adjustment of maximum bollard pull (tugs), vessels that needs precise and a lot of manovering for a longer period of time, for vessels that needs to minimalize drag when the engine is not running and for sailing vessels that is combining sailing and motoring. For these vessels the CPP systems is a better choice than a propeller system with fixed pitch (FP).

West Mekan stocks propellers with diameters in the range 12–25” with both right-handed and left-handed rotation with 3 or 4 blades and with or without skew.

Larger propellers are designed depending on the vessel and according to the client’s specifications. Propellers can be supplied with diameters up to 3 m and with 2–6 blades. The propellers comply with the highest tolerance classes.