New Axiom Propeller to feature at Seawork
17 Oct 2012
The Axiom DWS propeller is producing significant benefits
With fuel costs spiralling and increasingly stringent environmental regulations affecting marine communities globally, the need to conserve vessel energy is an ongoing consideration for ship and boat operators.
The first Axiom propeller – unique for the fact that there is no twist with regards to pitch and the propelled race is cylindrical in its form in direct contrast with the marine screw - was launched in 2008. Around 700 vessels have now been fitted with an Axiom and the latest DWS-type propeller - suitable for workboats and shipping up to 150ft - will be at Seawork 2013.
One vessel currently testing the DWS is the Plymouth Pilot 18’ Bumbly II, operating on a daily basis in the Felixstowe area. Martin Kendall Workshop manager Shotley Marine Services writes to Axiom Propellers: “Having now used our workboat for a few months since fitting the Axiom, you may be interested in some feedback. Firstly, Bumbly II now responds quicker going ahead from a standing start and has very good thrust for towing alongside. The turning circle both Port & Starboard has been reduced and she will go astern in a straight line. Stopping distance has been reduced (always a problem before), as long as the revs are applied slowly. As a bonus, at cruising speeds, Bumbly II now produces a totally flat wake! In summary the Axiom Propeller has greatly improved the handling and manoeuvrability of Bumbly II.”
Bollard pull trials have also been conducted, pitching a quality screw against an Axiom DWS, resulting in 8% improvement. Devices used before and after a screw propeller, such as ducts, spoilers and rudder-bulb fins which straighten out the water flow, are not needed when fitting an Axiom propeller.
“The DWS prop is the result of many years of research and development and is designed specifically to have improved performance together with better handling and stopping. The prop is unique in its blade symmetry, giving equal thrust ahead and astern, never before achieved with marine propellers,” says David Watts.
The Axiom DWS is available in two, three and four blade forms and gives vessels the ability to maintain a faster average speed, even in adverse conditions, thus reducing passage time. Reduced propeller slip reduces fuel usage by five to eight per cent.
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