Fatigue Behavior of Large Propellers

Abstract

This paper summarizes the findings of an experimental study on the full‐scale stress measurements and fatigue behavior of a full‐size aircraft carrier propeller. Supplementary data on the fatigue characteristics of the manganese bronze propeller material of a patrol craft propeller were included. Fatigue life predictions based on nominal stress and fracture mechanics concepts are analyzed and discussed. There is evidence that with accurate inputs as to stress levels and service loadings, a fracture mechanics approach appears to be a rational method of estimating the fatigue life of large propellers from specimen data.