Boat Propeller Balancing

One of the newest additions to Wilmington Propeller Service^TM is our Dynamic Balancer. Following is an explanation of the difference between dynamic and static balancing.

Static Propeller Balancing is the mechanical balance of a boat propeller in the plane of rotation. This can be measured by inserting a special arbor into the bore and placing this assembly onto a stand wherein the rotation of the propeller is in the vertical plane and the arbor rests upon bearings. Because the boat propeller is allowed to freely rotate, the heavier blade(s) will rotate to the downward most position. Weight is either added or removed until the boat propeller will remain static in any rotational position. A boat propeller may be in perfect static balance and still not be in a balanced state when rotating at high speeds.

Dynamic Propeller Balancing is the balancing of a boat propeller while it is rotating. Dynamic unbalance is a “couple” or a “twisting” force in two separate planes. Because these forces are in separate places, they cause a rocking motion fore and aft -or- side to side. A perfectly good boat propeller (geometrically) that is unbalanced will cause mechanical vibrations and a decrease in bearing life and efficiency due to unnecessary forces. The only scientific manner in which to accurately measure and therefore correct dynamic unbalance is through the use of a true multi-place dynamic balance analyzer.

At Wilmington Propeller Service^TM, we offer the customer the option of having their boat propellers dynamically balanced using the Dynamics Research 602 Multi-Plane Computerized Dynamic Balance System.