Kappel prop built

Stone Manganese is due to finish manufacturing the first full-scale Kappel propeller as we go to press. The 5m-plus diameter propeller is due to be fitted to a Dampskibsselskabet Norden product/chemical tanker. Norden says it is yet to decide which particular tanker, but confirms it will most likely be fitted some time in spring. “We are trying to minimise off-hire days,” the company explained to The Motor Ship adding that a condition of European Commission funding is that the propeller is fitted at a European shipyard. The Kappel propeller has blades that curve toward the suction side, a curve that is emphasised at the tip, in order to reduce energy losses. Its design is based on the theory of non-planar lifting surfaces. It is claimed the Kappel propeller will improve efficiency by 4-5% compared to a conventional propeller.