Fixed Adjustable Pitch Propeller (FP-A)
Fixed Adjustable Pitch (FP-A) propellers combine the simplicity of a fixed pitch propeller with the flexibility of adjusting blade pitch to suit changing operating conditions or vessel modifications. Each propeller is individually designed to match the vessel's operating profile and customer requirements.
Compared with a conventional Fixed Pitch (FP) propeller, an FP-A propeller has slightly lower hydrodynamic efficiency and higher purchase and maintenance costs. For this reason, a fixed pitch propeller is generally the preferred solution whenever it meets the vessel's performance requirements. An FP-A propeller is the ideal choice when the ability to adjust pitch after installation provides a clear operational advantage.
Blade pitch is adjusted mechanically by an external screw in the propeller hub. Pitch adjustments can be carried out during dry docking or by a diver without removing the propeller.
West Mekan supplies custom-designed FP-A propellers with diameters of up to 2.2 metres, available with 3 or 4 blades and manufactured to the highest tolerance classes for optimum performance and reliability.