Propellers

[Blaster84]

Looking at the different propeller web sights I see propellers are classified as "A" type, "C" type, or "D" type in either 3 or 4 blades. There are some other types but I am only interested in 3 or 4 blades. How does a person chose the best prop? What are the differences in performance and what would be the best for tug boats? In a small model it may not make much difference, but inquiring minds would like to know.

[patmat2350]

Those designations only apply to Raboesch's line of soldered brass props.
www.raboesch.com (http://www.raboesch.com/)
I wish they would describe these in more detail on their web site, but I've found that the A is "flatter" while D is more cup-shaped. A would be more appropriate for an old tug; I have a D on my Seguin, but you can see in the picture that it's just not right for the available space. D might be right for newer vessels- a motor yacht for example.

I never tried a "C" type, but these seem to be even more modern in shape.

Pat M

[patmat2350]

Performance-wise, I'd be surprised if you'd notice any difference at all in a scale boat. Pick the one that looks right for your model.

PM

[Ghost 2501]

having used the roebusch props, I have found them to be pretty good, I use a 4 blade unit on my najade model, and for a high speed high performance model, the regular pitch brass prop is a good deal :) £5.99! thats 10 dollars to you guys that side of the pond :P

[pkboo]

I have found that there´s no real diference in speed between the A and D type. I´ve seen a big diference though in the A 35mm type vs. the Graupner speed two bladed 36mm (agressive pitch) on my PT. The A type is faster which surprised me! :) The A type is a "normal" working prop and is probably faster than the Graupners cause the A works the boat (which weights 2,5kg) out of the water. I´ve never tried the C type cause they start at 40mm which is prolly bordering hull nearness on my PT. Eugène

[tugboater]

I agree. You need to choose the prop based on your model. Example, I am going to use a 4-bladed 50mm type-C as I am building a cruise ship. The link that Patmat provided will give you all the information you need, just go to Cat. 2 and then props. There is information about each prop style and the uses. You can also see them at the Ships N' Things website.

[Ghost 2501]

what would be ideal there is a curved blade type if you want a scale look, try Propshop of the uk

[Blaster84]

Thanks for all the input. I believe that answered all my questions about props.