Propeller Shaft
critical
IMO Required
Main propeller shaft transmitting engine power to propeller
5 yr
Class Survey
30 yr
Typical Lifetime
Typical Manufacturers
Wartsila
MAN
Kawasaki
Known Models (3)
Kawasaki Forged Shaft 500mm
20000 kW
· N/A (mechanical)
Common Failures:
- • Surface fatigue crack
- • Corrosion pitting
- • Propeller taper fit loosening
Service: Large vessel shaft; hydraulic propeller fitting; withdrawal every 2nd special survey.
Spares: Kawasaki: Dichtungs-Elemente und Verschleißmesswerkzeuge an Bord vorhalten. Lead time: 4-8 Wochen.
MAN Forged Shaft 350mm
8000 kW
· N/A (mechanical)
Common Failures:
- • Fretting corrosion at coupling
- • Torsional vibration damage
- • Bearing journal wear
Service: MAN-spec shaft; torsional vibration analysis required at design stage.
Spares: MAN: Dichtungs-Elemente und Verschleißmesswerkzeuge an Bord vorhalten. Lead time: 4-8 Wochen.
Wärtsilä Forged Steel Shaft 400mm
12000 kW
· N/A (mechanical)
Common Failures:
- • Surface cracking from fatigue
- • Corrosion at stern tube area
- • Keyway stress concentration
Service: Class survey mandatory; check for cracks with NDT at tailshaft withdrawal.
Spares: Wärtsilä: Dichtungs-Elemente und Verschleißmesswerkzeuge an Bord vorhalten. Lead time: 4-8 Wochen.