ITTC – Recommended 7.

5 – 01
02 – 01
Procedures and Guidelines Page 1 of 21
Model Manufacture, Propeller Models
Effective Date Revision
Terminology and Nomenclature for 2008 01
Propeller Geometry

Table of Contents

1 PURPOSE................................................ 2
2 ITTC DICTIONARY OF SHIP
HYDRODYNAMICS – PROPELLER
SECTION ................................................ 2

COMMENTS OF THE PROPULSION COMMITTEE OF 22nd ITTC

Several of the symbols and definitions used in 1975 differ from the symbols in the 1996 version of
ITTC Symbols and Terminology List. These changes were made to the Dictionary. The keywords
“angular blade position”, “effective pitch ratio”, “pitch setting”, “propulsor”, “rope guard” and
“skew angle extent” were added to the Dictionary. The note was added that the strength criteria of
some classification societies use other definitions for rake as given in this terminology. The key-
words “singing” and “skew-back” were deleted from the Dictionary.

The 14th ITTC (1975, vol. 3, pp. 473-476) published notations for “Nomenclature Relating to Un-
steady Propeller Forces”. This nomenclature presents a definition for the positive directions of
global reference frame. For propeller geometry it is convenient to define a local rotating reference
frame (e.g. Carlton, 1994, pp. 29-46). The fact that there are many different local reference frames
in use (e.g. Smith & Slater, 1988), can cause confusion or errors when transferring data for com-
parative calculations or for other purposes. Another similar problem is that particular lengths, an-
gles, velocities, angular velocities, etc. are, in some cases, given pre-selected positive values irre-
spective of the positive co-ordinate directions of the reference frame.

Edited by ITTC QS Group 1999 Approved

14th ITTC 1975 18th ITTC 1987
Vol. 3 pp473-476 Vol. 1 pp141-142, 14th ITTC 1975 and 18th ITTC 1987 and 25th
Vol.4 pp 518-541 Vol. 2 pp 99-100 ITTC
th
Updated 25 ITTC Propulsion Committee
Date February 2008 Date: 09/2008
 ITTC – Recommended 7.5 – 01
02 – 01
Procedures and Guidelines Page 2 of 20
Model Manufacture, Propeller Models
Effective Date Revision
Terminology and Nomenclature for 2008 01
Propeller Geometry

Terminology and Nomenclature for Propeller Geometry

Advance ratio ( λ)[-]

1 PURPOSE A non-dimensional speed parameter relating
the speed of advance, VA, and the rotational
To ensure that the terms and definitions of
tip speed, π nD, given by:
propeller geometry are properly defined.
λ = VA/ π nD = J/ π where J is the advance
coefficient.
2 ITTC DICTIONARY OF SHIP HY-
DRODYNAMICS – PROPELLER SEC- Analysis pitch
TION See Pitch, analysis.

Active rudder Angle, advance (of a propeller blade section)

See Rudder, active. (ß)[-]
The inflow angle to a propeller blade section
Advance angle (of a propeller blade section) determined by the rotational speed, ω, the ax-
See Angle, advance. ial velocity of the fluid, Vx, and the tangential
velocity of the fluid, Vθ, according to the
Advance coefficient (J)[-] equation:
A parameter relating the speed of advance of ß = tan −1{VX (r,θ ) /[ωr − Vθ (r,θ )]}
the propeller, VA, to the rate of rotation, n, The induced velocities are not included in the
given by: J = VA/nD, where D is the propeller determination of the advance angle.
diameter. (see Figure 1).

Advance coefficient in terms of ship speed Angle, advance (ß*)[-]

(JV)[-] A propeller inflow angle defined by the equa-
JV = V/nD tion:
The advance coefficient in terms of ship ß* = tan −1 (V A / 0.7πnD )
speed, V, is also called apparent advance co-
where VA is the speed of advance, n is the rate
efficient.
of rotation, and D is the propeller diameter.
Advance coefficient, Taylor's ( δ )[-]
Angle, hydrodynamic flow (ßI)[-]
A parameter defined as:
The inflow angle to a propeller blade section
δ =nD/VA = 101.27/J
including the axial and tangential induced ve-
where n is the rate of propeller rotation in
locities given by the equation (see Figure 1):
revolutions per minute, D is the propeller di-
ameter in feet, and VA is the speed of advance β I = tan
−1
{[VX (r, θ ) + U A (r )]/[ωr − Vθ (r, θ ) − UT (r )]}
in knots.
 ITTC – Recommended 7.5 – 01
02 – 01
Procedures and Guidelines Page 3 of 20
Model Manufacture, Propeller Models
Effective Date Revision
Terminology and Nomenclature for 2008 01
Propeller Geometry

Angle, shaft [-] The outline of a blade is constructed by lay-

The angle(s) made by a shaft axis with the ing off, at each radius r, the chord length
centre-plane and the base plane of a ship. along an arc whose radius of curvature, r1, is
equal to the radius of curvature of the pitch
Angle of attack ( α )[-] helix given by r1 = r/cos² φ where φ is the
The angle between the direction of undis- pitch angle at that radius. The outline is
turbed relative flow and the chord line (See formed by the locus of the end points of the
Figure 1). chord lines laid out in the above manner.

Angle of attack, effective ( α E)[-] Area, disc (A0)[L²]

The angle of attack relative to the chord line The area of the circle swept out by the tips of
including the induced velocities (See Figure the blades of a propeller of diameter D
1). A0 = πD 2 / 4

Angle of attack, geometric ( α G )[-] Area, expanded (AE)[L²]

The angle of attack relative to the chord line An approximation to the surface area of the
of a section neglecting the induced velocities propeller equal to the area enclosed by an out-
(See Figure 1). line of a blade times the number of blades.
The outline of a blade is constructed by lay-
Angle of attack, ideal ( α I)[-] ing off at each radius r, the chord length
A term used in the two-dimensional theory of along a straight line. The outline is formed by
thin airfoils to denote that angle of attack for the locus of the end points of the chord lines
which the stagnation point is at the leading laid out in the above manner.
edge. This condition is usually referred to as
"shock-free" entry or "smooth" entry. Area, projected (AP)[L²]
The area enclosed by the outline of the pro-
Angle of incidence peller blades outside the hub projected onto a
Synonymous with Angle of attack. plane normal to the shaft axis. The outline is
constructed by laying off, along each radius r,
Angle of zero lift ( α 0 )[-] the extremities of each section as determined
The angle of attack relative to the chord line in a view along the shaft axis. The locus of
for which the lift is zero. the end points of the chord lines laid out in
the above manner is the required outline.
Angular blade position (θ)[-]
Angular co-ordinate of key blade relative to Axial displacement, skew induced
fixed ship. The amount of axial displacement of a blade
section which results when skew-back is used
Area, developed (AD)[L²] (see Figure 2). It is the distance, measured in
An approximation to the surface area of the the direction of the shaft axis, between the
propeller equal to the area enclosed by an out- generator line and the blade reference line and
line of a blade times the number of blades. is given by rθS tan φ , where r is the local ra-
 ITTC – Recommended 7.5 – 01
02 – 01
Procedures and Guidelines Page 4 of 20
Model Manufacture, Propeller Models
Effective Date Revision
Terminology and Nomenclature for 2008 01
Propeller Geometry

dius, θS is the local skew angle, and φ is the fraction or blade thickness ratio. If the thick-
local pitch angle. It is positive when the gen- ness does not vary linearly with radius, then
erator line is forward of the blade reference the blade thickness fraction is not uniquely
line. defined.

Axial induced velocity Bollard pull FP0 [ML/T²]

See Induced velocity, axial. The pull force exerted by a ship at zero ship
speed. It is the sum of the propeller thrust and
Back (of blade) the interaction force on the hull.
The side of a propeller blade which faces
generally in the direction of ahead motion. Boss
This side of the blade is also known as the See Hub.
suction side of the blade because the average
pressure there is lower than the pressure on Camber (f)[L]
the face of the blade during normal ahead op- Sea Mean Line
eration. This side of the blade corresponds to
the upper surface of an airfoil or wing. Camber, maximum (fM)[L]
The maximum separation of the mean line
Blade area ratio [-] and the nose-tail line.
A term used to denote the ratio of either the
developed or expanded area of the blades to Camber ratio [-]
the disc area. The terms expanded area ratio The maximum camber divided by the chord
or developed area ratio are recommended in length, fM/c.
order to avoid ambiguity.
Cap, propeller
Blade section See Cone, propeller.
Most commonly taken to mean the shape of a
propeller blade at any radius, when cut by a Centrifugal spindle torque
circular cylinder whose axis coincides with See Spindle torque, centrifugal.
the shaft axis.
Chord (c) [L]
Blade section reference point The length of the chord line. Sometimes used
See Reference point, blade section. synonymously with chord line.

Blade thickness fraction (t0/D)[-] Chord length, mean (cm)[L]

If the maximum thickness of the propeller The quotient obtained by dividing the ex-
blades varies linearly with radius, then this panded or developed area of a propeller blade
variation of thickness may be imagined to ex- by the span from the hub to the tip.
tend to the axis of rotation. The hypothetical
thickness at the axis of rotation, to, divided by Chord line
the diameter, is known as the blade thickness The straight line connecting the extremities of
the mean line. The length of this line is called
 ITTC – Recommended 7.5 – 01
02 – 01
Procedures and Guidelines Page 5 of 20
Model Manufacture, Propeller Models
Effective Date Revision
Terminology and Nomenclature for 2008 01
Propeller Geometry

the chord length or simply the chord. It passes

through, or nearly through, the fore and aft Expanded area ratio [-]
extremities of the section; synonymous with The ratio of the expanded area of the blades
nose-tail line. to the disc area.

Cone, propeller Face (of blade)

The conical-shaped cover placed over the af- The side of the propeller blade which faces
ter or forward end of the propeller shaft for downstream during ahead motion. This side
the purpose of protecting the nut and forming of the blade is also known as the pressure side
a hydrodynamic fairing for the hub; also because the average pressure on the face of
known as a propeller fairwater or a propeller the blade is higher than the average pressure
cap. on the back of the blade during normal opera-
tions. The face corresponds to the lower sur-
Contra rotating propeller face of an airfoil or wing.
See Propeller Types.
Face pitch
Cycloidal propeller See Pitch, face.
See Propeller Types.
Fillet
Developed area The transition region (fairing) between the
See Area, developed. propeller hub and the blades at the blade root.

Developed area ratio [-] Gap (GZ)[L]

The ratio of the developed area of the propel- The distance between the chord lines of two
ler blades to the disc area. adjacent propeller blade sections at the same
radius, r, measured normal to the chord. This
Ducted propeller distance is given by the formula:
See Propeller Types. GZ = ( 2π r sin φ ) / ( Z )
where r is the radius in question, φ is the
Effective angle of attack
See Angle of attack, effective. pitch angle of the chord line at radius r (geo-
metric pitch), and Z is the number of blades.
Effective pitch
See Pitch, effective. Generator line
The line formed by the intersection of the
Emergence, tip [L] pitch helices and the plane containing the
The vertical distance from the top of the pro- shaft axis and the propeller reference line.
peller tip circle to the at-rest water surface The distance from the propeller plane to the
when the tips are exposed. generator line in the direction of the shaft axis
is called the rake. The generator line, the
Expanded area blade reference line, and the propeller refer-
See Area, expanded. ence line each intersect the shaft axis at the
 ITTC – Recommended 7.5 – 01
02 – 01
Procedures and Guidelines Page 6 of 20
Model Manufacture, Propeller Models
Effective Date Revision
Terminology and Nomenclature for 2008 01
Propeller Geometry

same point when extended thereto. Because Hydrodynamic spindle torque

of ambiguities which can arise in so extend- See Spindle torque, hydrodynamic.
ing the generator line and blade reference line
when non-linear distributions of rake and Hydrofoil
skew angle are used, these lines can be de- A structure externally similar to an airplane
fined to each originate at the reference point wing designed to produce lift and which op-
of the root section (see Figure 2). The rake erates in water.
and skew angle of the root section will thus
be defined to be zero and the propeller plane Hydrofoil section
will pass through the reference point of the The cross-section shape of a hydrofoil.
root section.
Ideal angle of attack
Geometric angle of attack See Angle of attack, ideal.
See Angle of attack, geometric.
Immersion (h0)[L]
Geometric pitch The depth of submergence of the propeller
See Pitch, geometric. measured vertically from the shaft axis to the
free surface.
Hub
The central portion of a screw propeller to Immersion ratio [-]
which the blades are attached and through The depth of submergence of the propeller
which the driving shaft is fitted; also known axis divided by the propeller diameter.
as the boss.
Inboard rotation
Hub diameter (dh)[L] A propeller which is not located on the cen-
The diameter of the hub where it intersects treline of the ship is said to have inboard rota-
the generator line. tion if the blades move toward the centreline
as they pass the upper vertical position. The
Hub ratio [-] opposite direction of rotation is called out-
The ratio of the diameter of the hub to the board rotation.
maximum diameter of the propeller, dh/D.
Induced velocity, axial (UA)[L/T]
Hydrodynamic flow angle The change in the velocity component in the
See Angle, hydrodynamic flow. direction parallel to the propeller axis due to
the presence of the propeller but not including
Hydrodynamic pitch any change in the wake field due to propel-
See Pitch, hydrodynamic. ler/hull interactions (see Figure 1).

Hydrodynamic pitch angle Induced velocity, tangential (UT)[L/T]

Synonymous with hydrodynamic flow angle. The change in the velocity component in the
See Angle, hydrodynamic flow tangential direction due to the presence of the
propeller but not including any change in the
 ITTC – Recommended 7.5 – 01
02 – 01
Procedures and Guidelines Page 7 of 20
Model Manufacture, Propeller Models
Effective Date Revision
Terminology and Nomenclature for 2008 01
Propeller Geometry

wake field due to propeller/hull interactions equal to the inverse of one half of the aspect
(see Figure 1). ratio for a wing.

Induced velocity, radial (UR)[L/T] Median line

The change in the velocity component in the Synonymous with generator line.
radial direction due to the presence of the
propeller but not including any change in the Nominal pitch
wake field due to propeller/hull interactions. See Pitch, nominal.

Kort nozzle Nose-tail line

See Propeller Types (ducted). Synonymous with chord line.

Left handed (propeller) Nozzle

A propeller which rotates in the counter The duct portion of a ducted propeller; syn-
clockwise direction when viewed from astern. onymous with duct or shroud.

Lift (L) [ML/T²] Ogival section

The fluid force acting on a body in a direction A type of airfoil or hydrofoil section having a
perpendicular to the motion of the body rela- straight face, a circular arc or parabolic back,
tive to the fluid. maximum thickness at the mid chord, and
relatively sharp leading and trailing edges.
Mean chord length
See Chord length, mean. Outboard rotation
A propeller which is not located on centreline
Mean line of the ship is said to have outboard rotation if
The mean line is the locus of the midpoint be- the blades move away from the centreline as
tween the upper and lower surface of an air- they pass the upper vertical position. The op-
foil or hydrofoil section. The thickness is posite direction of rotation is called inboard
generally measured in the direction normal to rotation.
the chord rather (see Figure 3) than normal to
the mean line (see Figure 4). The maximum Pitch (P)[L]
distance between the mean line and the chord A helical path is generated by a point moving
line, measured normal to the chord line, is at a uniform velocity, V, along an axis while
called the camber. The term camber line is of- at the same time rotating about that axis at a
ten used synonymously with mean line. uniform angular velocity, ω , at a distance, r,
from the axis. The distance travelled along
Mean pitch the axis in one revolution is called the pitch,
See Pitch, mean. P, of the helix. The angle between the path
and a plane normal to the axis is called the
Mean width ratio [-] pitch angle, φ (see Figure 2a).
Mean expanded or developed chord of one
blade divided by the propeller diameter;
 ITTC – Recommended 7.5 – 01
02 – 01
Procedures and Guidelines Page 8 of 20
Model Manufacture, Propeller Models
Effective Date Revision
Terminology and Nomenclature for 2008 01
Propeller Geometry

Pitch, analysis
Advance per revolution at zero thrust as de- Pitch, variable
termined experimentally. A propeller blade for which the pitch is not
the same at all radii is said to have variable
Pitch, effective pitch or varied pitch. A propeller which has
Weighted value of geometric pitch when the same pitch at all radii is said to be a con-
pitch is not constant. Both the radius and the stant pitch propeller.
thrust distribution (if known) have been used
as weighting factors. Effective refers also to Pitch angle( φ )[-]
the advance coefficient where KT is zero (i.e. In the case of a propeller, the angle between
”no-thrust” pitch). the chord line of the section at radius r and a
plane normal to the shaft axis is called the
Pitch, face pitch angle of the propeller at that radius, φ .
The pitch of the helix generated by a line par- This is generally known as the geometric
allel to the face of the blade. Used only for pitch (see Figure 1).
flat-faced sections where offsets are defined
from a face reference line. Pitch ratio [-]
The ratio of the pitch to the diameter of the
Pitch, geometric (nose-tail pitch) propeller. Generally, the face pitch or geo-
The pitch of the helix generated by the nose- metric pitch at the 70 percent radius is used to
tail line (chord line). It is equal to the face compute the pitch ratio. Any measure of pitch
pitch if the setback of the leading and trailing can be used with the diameter to form a pitch
edges of the section are equal. ratio.
Pitch, hydrodynamic Pitch setting [-]
The pitch of the streamlines passing the pro- In CPP context pitch setting is defined as the
peller including the velocities induced by the angle of the nose tail line of the blade at the
propeller at a radial line passing through the radius 0.7. In other words, the pitch setting is
mid-chord of the root section. See Angle, hy- the actual pitch angle at the 0.7 radius.
drodynamic flow.
Plane of rotation
Pitch, mean See Propeller plane.
1) Generally synonymous with effective
pitch. Power coefficient (KP)[-]
2) The pitch of a constant pitch propeller The delivered power at the propeller, PD, ex-
which would produce the same thrust as a pressed in coefficient form:
propeller with radially varying pitch when
K P = PD / ρn 3 D 5
placed in the same flow.
where ρ is the mass density of the fluid, n is
Pitch, nominal the rate of propeller rotation, and D is the di-
Synonymous with face pitch. (See Pitch, ameter of the propeller.
face).
 ITTC – Recommended 7.5 – 01
02 – 01
Procedures and Guidelines Page 9 of 20
Model Manufacture, Propeller Models
Effective Date Revision
Terminology and Nomenclature for 2008 01
Propeller Geometry

Power coefficient, Taylor's delivered power Projected area

(BP)[ML-3]1/2 See Area, projected.
The horsepower absorbed by the propeller,
PD, expressed in coefficient form: Projected area ratio [-]
/ A The ratio of the projected area to the disc
D
where n is revolutions per minute and VA is area.
the speed of advance in knots.
Propeller
Power coefficient, Taylor's thrust power The most common form of propulsor is the
(BU)[ML-3]1/2 screw propeller, which basically consists of a
The thrust horsepower delivered by the pro- central hub and a number of blades extending
peller, PT, expressed in coefficient form: out radially from the hub. Lift is generated by
1 5 the blades when the propeller is rotated. One
BU = n ( PT ) / VA
2 2 component of the lift force produces the de-
sired thrust and the other component creates
where n is revolutions per minute and VA is
torque which must be overcome by the engine
the speed of advance in knots.
to sustain rotation.
Power loading coefficient (CP)[-]
Propeller plane
The power absorbed by the propeller, PD, ex-
The plane normal to the shaft axis and pass-
pressed in coefficient form:
ing through the intersection of the generator
⎡1 ⎤
CP = PD / ⎢ ρVA 3 (π D 2 / 4 )⎥ line and the shaft axis when the generator line
⎣2 ⎦ is thereto extended; also called the plane of
where ρ is the fluid density, VA is the speed rotation (see Figure 2). It is recommended
of advance, and D is the propeller diameter. that the plane be defined instead to contain
the propeller reference line, i.e., contain the
Power loading coefficient, ship speed (CPS)[-] reference point of the root section, in order to
⎡1 ⎤ avoid the ambiguities which can arise when
CPS = PD / ⎢ ρV 3 (π D 2 / 4 )⎥ non-linear distributions of rake and skew are
⎣2 ⎦
used.
This coefficient may be defined in terms of
ship speed V and is then denoted by the sym-
Propeller Types
bol CPS.
The basic screw propeller may be described
as fixed pitch, subcavitating, open (unducted),
Pressure side
and fully submerged. Variations on this basic
The side of the propeller blade having the
type are listed below.
greater mean pressure during normal ahead
operation. This is synonymous with the face
Adjustable-pitch propeller - A propeller
of the blade and analogous to the lower sur-
whose blades can be adjusted to different
face of a wing.
pitch settings when the propeller is stopped.

Contra-rotating propeller - Two propellers

 ITTC – Recommended 7.5 – 01
02 – 01
Procedures and Guidelines Page 10 of 20
Model Manufacture, Propeller Models
Effective Date Revision
Terminology and Nomenclature for 2008 01
Propeller Geometry

rotating in opposite directions on coaxial ler in which the duct can be pivoted about a
shafts. vertical axis so as to obtain a steering effect.

Controllable-pitch propeller - A propeller Supercavitating propeller - A propeller de-

having blades which can be rotated about a signed to operate efficiently at very low cavi-
radial axis to change the pitch of the blades tation numbers where a fully developed cav-
while the propeller is operating. This allows ity extends at least to the trailing edge of the
full power to be absorbed for all loading con- blade. The blade sections of such propellers
ditions. If the pitch can be adjusted to the ex- have relatively sharp leading edges for more
tent that reverse thrust can be achieved with- efficient supercavitating operation and thick
out reversing the direction of rotation of the trailing edges for strength.
shaft then the propeller is sometimes called a
controllable-reversible pitch propeller. Surface-Piercing propeller - A propeller of
the supercavitating ventilated type designed
Cycloidal propeller - A propeller consisting to operate with only a portion of the full disc
of a flat disc set flush with the under surface area immersed. These propellers are consid-
of the vessel with a number of vertical, rud- ered for application to high speed vehicles
der-like blades projecting from it. The disc such as surface effect ships where the ap-
revolves about a central axis and each of the pendage drag associated with the shafts and
blades rotates about its own vertical axis. The struts of a fully submerged propeller would
axis of each blade traces a cycloidal path. The result in a considerable increase in resistance.
blade motion can be varied so as to produce a Also known as partially-submerged, or sur-
net thrust in any desired direction - ahead, face, or interface propellers.
astern, or athwartships. It is used where excel-
lent manoeuvrability is required. Tandem propeller - Two propellers fitted to
the same shaft, one behind the other, and ro-
Ducted propeller - A propeller with a short tating as one.
duct mounted concentrically or nearly con-
centrically with the shaft. The duct, or nozzle Transcavitating propeller – A propeller that
is shaped so as to control the expansion or has a hybrid blade section designs: the inner
contraction of the slipstream in the immediate portion of the blade is designed as a super-
vicinity of the propeller. In one form (the cavitating section while the outer portion of
Kort nozzle) the flow is accelerated, whereas the blade is designed as a subcavitating sec-
in the other form (pump jet) the flow is decel- tion.
erated.
Ventilated propeller - A propeller of the su-
Ring propeller - A propeller with a very short percavitating type, but with provision to in-
duct attached to the tips of the blades and ro- troduce air into the cavities in order to
tating with the propeller; also called a banded achieve fully developed, stable cavities at
propeller. lower speeds than would otherwise be possi-
ble.
Steerable ducted propeller - A ducted propel-
 ITTC – Recommended 7.5 – 01
02 – 01
Procedures and Guidelines Page 11 of 20
Model Manufacture, Propeller Models
Effective Date Revision
Terminology and Nomenclature for 2008 01
Propeller Geometry

Vertical axis propeller - Synonymous with θ = tan −1 ⎡⎣iG ( R ) / ( R − rh ) ⎤⎦ .

cycloidal propeller.
See also keyword "reference point, blade sec-
Propulsor tion”.
Most generally, any device which produces
thrust to propel a vehicle. Rake, total axial displacement (iT)[L]
The sum of the rake and the skew-induced ax-
Pumpjet ial displacement.
See Propeller Types (ducted).
Reference line, blade
Race, propeller The locus of the reference points of the blade
The accelerated, turbulent column of water sections (see Figure 2). Sometimes used syn-
forming the outflow from a screw propeller. onymously with generator line.

Radial induced velocity Reference line, propeller

See Induced velocity, radial. The straight line, normal to the shaft axis,
which passes through the reference point of
Radius (r)[L] the root section (see Figure 2). It lies in the
Radius of any point on a propeller. plane containing the shaft axis and the gen-
erator line.
Radius, maximum (R)[L]
Maximum radial extent of a blade section Reference point, blade section
measured from the propeller centre line. The point on the pitch helix to which the
blade section offsets is referred. It is usually
Rake (iG)[L] the mid-point of the chord line. The point of
The displacement, iG, from the propeller plane maximum thickness and the location of the
to the generator line in the direction of the spindle axis for controllable-pitch propellers,
shaft axis. Aft displacement is considered as well as other points, are also used as blade
positive rake (see Figure 2). The rake at the section reference points.
blade tip, or the rake angle are generally used
as measures of the rake. The strength criteria Right handed (propeller)
of some classification societies use other A propeller which rotates in the clockwise di-
definitions for rake. See also keyword "refer- rection when viewed from astern.
ence point, blade section”.
Root
The part of the propeller blade adjacent to the
Rake angle ( θ )[-]
propeller hub.
The rake angle for a straight generator line
can be defined by:
Rope Guard
θ = tan −1 ⎡⎣iG ( R ) / R ⎤⎦ . Shaped plate (or piece in model scale) at-
Another definition of the rake angle is: tached to the stern tube boss of a ship which
extends from the boss to towards the propeller
 ITTC – Recommended 7.5 – 01
02 – 01
Procedures and Guidelines Page 12 of 20
Model Manufacture, Propeller Models
Effective Date Revision
Terminology and Nomenclature for 2008 01
Propeller Geometry

leaving a small gap between the two. Rope

guards are usually of cylindrical or conical Skew angle ( θ S)[-]
shape. The angular displacement about the shaft axis
of the reference point of any blade section
Rudder, active relative to the generator line measured in the
A propulsion device installed in the rudder for plane of rotation (see Figure 2). It is positive
ship manoeuvring at low or zero speed. when opposite to the direction of ahead rota-
tion. This angle is the same as the warp.
Screw propeller
See Propeller. Skew angle extent ( θ EXT)[- ]
The difference between maximum and mini-
Shaft inclination mum local skew angle.
See Angle, shaft
Skew-back [L]
Setback [L] Also called skew.
The displacement of the leading edge or trail-
ing edge of a propeller blade section from the Skew-induced axial displacement
face pitch datum line when the section shape See Axial displacement, skew-induced.
is referenced to that line; also called wash-
back or wash-up. The setback ratio is the set- Slipstream
back divided by the chord length. See Race.

Shock free entry Span (b)[L]

See Angle of attack, ideal. The distance from tip to tip of a hydrofoil.
The distance from root to tip in the semi-span.
Shroud
The duct portion of a ducted propeller con- Spindle axis
centric or nearly concentric with the axis of The axis about which a controllable-pitch
rotation of the propeller blades. In some cases propeller blade is rotated to achieve a change
the duct may be rotated about a vertical axis in pitch.
to provide steering forces; Synonyms: duct,
nozzle. Spindle torque (QS)[ML2/T²]
The torque acting about the spindle axis of a
Skew [L] controllable-pitch propeller blade resulting
The displacement of any blade section along from the hydrodynamic and centrifugal forces
the pitch helix measured from the generator exerted on the blade. This torque is positive if
line to the reference point of the section (see it tends to rotate the blade toward a higher
Figure 2). Positive skew-back is opposite to positive pitch.
the direction of ahead motion of the blade QS = QSC + QSH
section. The skew definition pertains to mid-
chord skew, unless specified otherwise. See
also keyword “reference point, blade section”.
 ITTC – Recommended 7.5 – 01
02 – 01
Procedures and Guidelines Page 13 of 20
Model Manufacture, Propeller Models
Effective Date Revision
Terminology and Nomenclature for 2008 01
Propeller Geometry

Spindle torque, centrifugal (QSC)[ML²/T²] where ρ is the density of the fluid, VA is the
The torque acting about the spindle axis of a speed of advance, n is the rate of propeller ro-
controllable pitch propeller blade resulting tation, and D is the diameter. This form of the
from the centrifugal forces exerted on the spindle torque coefficient is useful when pre-
blade. This torque is positive if it tends to ro- senting propeller spindle torque characteris-
tate the blade toward a higher positive pitch. tics over a range of advance coefficients ex-
tending from zero (VA = 0) to infinity (n = 0).
Spindle torque, hydrodynamic (QSH) Usually presented as a function of
[ML²/T²] β * ≡ tan −1 ⎡⎣VA / ( 0.7π nD ) ⎤⎦
The torque acting about the spindle axis of a
controllable pitch propeller blade resulting
from the hydrodynamic forces exerted on the Stacking line
blade. This torque is positive if it tends to ro- Synonymous with generator line; also used to
tate the blade toward a higher positive pitch. denote the blade reference line.

Spindle torque coefficient, centrifugal (KSC) Static thrust coefficient

[-] See Thrust coefficient, static.
The centrifugal spindle torque, QSC, ex-
pressed in coefficient form: Steerable ducted propeller
See Propeller Types.
SC SC / P
where ρ P is the mass density of the propeller
Suction side
blade material, n is the rate of propeller rota- The low pressure side of a propeller blade;
tion, and D is the propeller diameter. synonymous with the back of the propeller
blade; analogous to the upper surface of a
Spindle torque coefficient, hydrodynamic wing.
(KSH) [-]
The hydrodynamic spindle torque, QSH, ex- Supercavitating propeller
pressed in coefficient form: See Propeller Types.
K SH = QSH / ρ n 2 D 5
where ρ is the mass density of the fluid, n is Surface-piercing propeller
the rate of propeller rotation, and D is the See Propeller Types.
propeller diameter.
Tangential induced velocity
* See Induced velocity, tangential.
Spindle torque index, hydrodynamic (K SH)
[-]
The hydrodynamic spindle torque, QSH, ex- Taylor's advance coefficient
pressed in coefficient form: See Advance coefficient, Taylor's.
⎧1 ⎫
K SH* = QSH / ⎨ ρ ⎡VA 2 + ( 0.7π nD ) ⎤ (π D 3 / 4 ) ⎬
2

⎩ 2 ⎣ ⎦ ⎭
Taylor's power coefficients (BU,BP)
See Power coefficient, Taylor's.
 ITTC – Recommended 7.5 – 01
02 – 01
Procedures and Guidelines Page 14 of 20
Model Manufacture, Propeller Models
Effective Date Revision
Terminology and Nomenclature for 2008 01
Propeller Geometry

Thickness, (t)[L] ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ 2 1
⎤
η JPO = T / ⎢( ρπ / 2 ) 3 ( PD D ) 3 ⎥ = KT / ⎢π ( KQ ) 3 .2 3 ⎥
1 2

The thickness of a propeller blade section,

generally measured normal to the chord line ⎣ ⎦ ⎣ ⎦
(see Figure 3). In NACA definition thickness
is set perpendicular to camber line (see Figure
4). Thrust index (CT*)[-]
The thrust, T, produced by the propeller ex-
Thickness ratio [-] pressed in coefficient form:
The ratio of the maximum thickness, tM, of a ⎧1 ⎫
CT* ≡ T / ⎨ ρ ⎡⎣VA2 + ( 0.7π nD ) ² ⎤⎦ (π D ² / 4 ) ⎬
hydrofoil/propeller blade section to the chord ⎩2 ⎭
length, c, of that section. where ρ is the density of the fluid, VA is the
speed of advance, n is the rate of rotation and
Thrust (T)[ML/T²] D is the propeller diameter. This form of the
The force developed by a screw propeller in thrust coefficient is useful when presenting
the direction of the shaft. propeller thrust characteristics over a range of
advance coefficients from zero (VA = 0) to in-
Thrust breakdown finity (n = 0). Usually presented as a function
The phenomenon of loss of thrust due to ex- of ß* where ß* =- tan-1[VA/(0.7 π nD)].
cessive cavitation on a sub-cavitating type
propeller. The torque absorbed by the propel- Thrust loading coefficient (CTh)[-]
ler is affected similarly and is called torque The thrust, T, produced by the propeller ex-
breakdown. Both the thrust and torque coeffi- pressed in coefficient form:
cients may increase slightly above non-
cavitating values near the initial inception of C Th = T / ⎡⎣( ρ / 2 )VA ² (π D ² / 4 ) ⎤⎦ = ( KT / J ² )(8 / π )
cavitation. In general, the changes in thrust where ρ is the density of the fluid, VA is the
and torque are such that propeller efficiency speed of advance, and D is the propeller di-
is reduced. ameter.

Thrust coefficient (KT)[-] Thrust loading coefficient, ship speed(CTS)[-]

The thrust, T, produced by propeller ex- The symbol CTS is used when this coefficient
pressed in coefficient form: is based on ship speed instead of speed of ad-
KT = T/ ρ n2D4 vance.
where ρ is the mass density of the fluid, n is C TS = T / ⎡⎣ ( ρ / 2 )V ² (π D ² / 4 ) ⎤⎦
the rate of propeller rotation, and D is the
propeller diameter.
Thruster
A propulsion device for zero or low speed
Thrust coefficient, static (η JPO )[-] manoeuvring of vessels.
A figure of merit for comparing the relative
Torque (Q)[ML²/T²]
performance of propulsion devices at zero
The torque delivered to the propeller aft of all
speed of advance given by the equation:
bearings.
 ITTC – Recommended 7.5 – 01
02 – 01
Procedures and Guidelines Page 15 of 20
Model Manufacture, Propeller Models
Effective Date Revision
Terminology and Nomenclature for 2008 01
Propeller Geometry

Velocity, induced
Torque breakdown See Induced velocity (axial, tangential, and
See Thrust breakdown. radial).

Torque coefficient (KQ)[-] Ventilated propeller

The torque, Q, delivered to the propeller ex- See Propeller Types.
pressed in coefficient form:
KQ = Q/( ρ n²D5) Vertical-axis propeller
where ρ is the density of the fluid, n is the Synonymous with cycloidal propeller. See
rate of propeller rotation, and D is the propel- Propeller Types.
ler diameter.
Warp
Torque index (CQ*)[-] Synonymous with skew angle.
The torque, Q, absorbed by the propeller ex-
pressed in coefficient form: Washback
See Setback.
⎧1 ⎫
CQ* ≡ Q / ⎨ ρ ⎡⎣VA2 + ( 0.7π nD ) ² ⎤⎦ (π D 3 / 4 ) ⎬
⎩2 ⎭ Waterjet
where ρ is the density of the fluid, VA is the A form of propulsion in which water is taken
speed of advance, n is the rate of propeller ro- into the hull of the ship by means of ducting
tation, and D is the diameter. This form of the and energy is imparted to the water with a
torque coefficient is useful when presenting pump. The water is then ejected astern
propeller torque characteristics over a range through a nozzle.
of advance coefficients extending from zero
(VA = 0) to infinity (n = 0). Usually presented Windmilling
as a function The rotation of a propeller caused by flow
ß* =- tan-1 [VA/(0.7 π nD)]. past the propeller without power being ap-
plied to the propeller shaft. This action may
Total rake take place while the ship is moving under its
See Rake, total. own momentum, while it is being towed, or
while it is being propelled by other means of
Transcavitating propeller propulsion.
See Propeller Types.

Variable pitch
See Pitch, variable.
 ITTC – Recommended 7.5 – 01
02 – 01
Procedures Page 16 of 20
Model Manufacture, Propeller Models Revi-
Effective Date
Terminology and Nomenclature for 2008
sion
Propeller Geometry 01

U A (r)

UT (r)

α E (r)

Chord line extended

VX (r,θ)

αG(r,θ) φ (r)

β (r,θ)
βI(r,θ)

(ωr-Vθ (r,θ))

Figure 1 Typical velocity diagram for a propeller blade section at radius r. Note diagram is drawn
with all quantities positive and the velocity vectors representing the velocity of the propeller blade
section elative to the fluid.
 ITTC – Recommended 7.5 – 01
02 – 01
Procedures Page 17 of 20
Model Manufacture, Propeller Models Revi-
Effective Date
Terminology and Nomenclature for 2008
sion
Propeller Geometry 01

Reference point of blade Pitch angle

X
root section and of section
propeller reference line at radius r
Blade root section φ
Propeller plane Y
Plane of rotation Z

Rake ( iG )
Intersection of generator line
and cylinder at radius r
Total
rake ( iT )
Blade section
at radius r
Plane containing shaft axis
k

Skew induced
ac

and propeller reference line

-b

rake ( iS )
ew
Sk

r θs θ s = skew angle

Intersection of blade
reference line (locus of blade
section reference points)
and cylinder at radius r
 ITTC – Recommended 7.5 – 01
02 – 01
Procedures Page 18 of 20
Model Manufacture, Propeller Models Revi-
Effective Date
Terminology and Nomenclature for 2008
sion
Propeller Geometry 01

Generator line
Propeller reference line
Propeller plane

Blade reference
line θ

iG Reference point
of root section

Propeller hub
r
Forward Hub
Down radius

Shaft axis

Figure 2b Diagram showing recommended reference lines (looking to port)

 ITTC – Recommended 7.5 – 01
02 – 01
Procedures Page 19 of 20
Model Manufacture, Propeller Models Revi-
Effective Date
Terminology and Nomenclature for 2008
sion
Propeller Geometry 01

Propeller reference line

and generator line
Blade reference line
(locus of blade section
reference points)
Projected blade
outline
Trailing edge θs

r Leading edge
Propeller hub

Reference point
of root section
Shaft axis Starboard
Down

Figure 2c Diagram showing recommended reference lines (looking forward)

 ITTC – Recommended 7.5 – 01
02 – 01
Procedures Page 20 of 20
Model Manufacture, Propeller Models Revi-
Effective Date
Terminology and Nomenclature for 2008
sion
Propeller Geometry 01

y
Leading
Trailing Mean Line Edge
Edge
Chord Line (Nose-Tail Line)
x
c

y
Upper Surface
(Back or Suction Side)

1
2 t (x )
yU ( x )

1
2 t (x ) f (x )

y L (x )
x Leading
Lower Surface Edge
(Face or Pressure Side)

Figure 3. Definition of expanded cylindrical blade section geometry - thickness normal to chord line.

y
Upper Surface
(Back or Suction Side)
xU ( x )

1
2 t (x )

yU ( x )
1
t (x )
f (x )
2

x y L (x ) Leading
Edge
Lower Surface
(Face or Pressure Side) x L (x )

Figure 4. Definition of expanded cylindrical blade section geometry with thickness added normal to
mean line.