Sizing and Analysis of Folding Propellers for Auxiliary-Powered Sailboats

Abstract

Techniques and procedures are well established for the reliable sizing and analysis of conventional monoblock propellers on powered vessels, such as motor yachts and other pleasure craft. However, the use of these propeller sizing criteria and analysis techniques have proven ineffective for auxiliary-powered sailboats with folding propellers. This paper is intended to be a “design guide” for the sizing and analysis of folding propellers on auxiliary powered sailboats, utilizing both anecdotal evidence and analytical investigation in the development of new criteria and recommended procedures. Topics considered in this paper include speed prediction, calculation models for folding propellers, and cavitation criteria.