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Surface Drive Propeller

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What is a Surface Drive Propeller?
A Surface Drive Propeller is a propulsion system specifically designed for high-performance boats. Traditional propulsion systems fully submerge the propeller underwater, while a Surface Drive Propeller partially exposes the propeller above the water surface. This design reduces underwater drag, increasing the boat's speed and efficiency. With fewer submerged components, Surface Drive Propellers are more durable and especially suitable for high-speed cruising and racing boats.History and Development of Surface Drive Propellers
The concept of Surface Drive Propellers dates back to the early 20th century, but significant technological advancements and widespread application occurred in the mid-20th century. With progress in materials science and fluid dynamics, modern Surface Drive Propeller technology has improved significantly. Many innovative companies have invested substantial resources in research and development, enhancing both the performance and reliability of these propulsion systems.
How Surface Drive Propellers Work
The working principle of a Surface Drive Propeller is based on its unique design, with the top part of the propeller exposed above the water surface. This way, the propeller only needs to overcome partial water resistance rather than the full water body's resistance. This semi-submerged design allows the propeller to generate more thrust while reducing energy wastage.
  1. Reduced Drag: Underwater drag is a significant factor affecting a boat's speed. By reducing the submerged part of the propeller, Surface Drive Propellers significantly lower drag, enhancing propulsion efficiency.
  2. Increased Speed: With reduced drag, boats can achieve higher speeds. This is especially important for applications requiring quick response and high speed, such as rescue and racing boats.
  3. Optimized Thrust: The semi-submerged design allows the propeller to operate at higher speeds, generating greater thrust. This is advantageous for applications requiring high speed and heavy load.
Advantages of Surface Drive Propellers
Surface Drive Propellers excel in various aspects, making them the preferred propulsion system for many high-performance boats. Here are some key advantages: 
  1. High Efficiency: The design of Surface Drive Propellers reduces underwater drag, increasing the boat's speed and fuel efficiency. This helps lower operating costs and extend the cruising range.
  2. Reduced Maintenance: With the propeller exposed above the water surface, inspection and maintenance become more accessible. Regular checks and cleaning can be done without needing to submerge the boat, reducing maintenance time and costs.
  3. Superior Handling: Surface Drive Propellers offer better handling, especially at high speeds. The boat can respond more quickly to steering inputs, enhancing navigation safety and flexibility.
  4. Adaptability to Various Waters: Whether in freshwater or saltwater, Surface Drive Propellers perform excellently. Their corrosion-resistant materials and design ensure long-term reliability in diverse environments.
  5. Noise and Vibration Reduction: With the propeller partially exposed above the water, noise and vibration are significantly reduced. This is crucial for passenger comfort and the stealthiness of military vessels.
Applications of Surface Drive Propellers
Surface Drive Propellers are widely used in various high-performance boats, including but not limited to the following fields:
  1. Racing Boats: Racing boats require high speed and excellent handling, making Surface Drive Propellers ideal for these vessels.
  2. Rescue Boats: Rescue boats need quick response and high speed to reach the scene promptly in emergencies. Surface Drive Propellers meet these requirements, improving rescue efficiency.
  3. Military Vessels: Military vessels demand stealth and reliability. The low noise, low vibration, and high reliability of Surface Drive Propellers make them outstanding in military applications.
  4. Pleasure Boats: Pleasure boats require a smooth and comfortable sailing experience. Surface Drive Propellers provide less noise and vibration, enhancing passenger comfort.
How to Choose the Right Surface Drive Propeller
Choosing the right Surface Drive Propeller involves considering several factors, including the type of boat, its purpose, and the expected sailing speed. Here are some selection tips:
  1. Type of Boat: Different types of boats have different propulsion needs. For example, racing boats need high speed and handling performance, while pleasure boats prioritize comfort and fuel efficiency. Ensure the propeller matches the type of boat.
  2. Sailing Requirements: Select a propeller that meets specific needs based on the boat's purpose (e.g., fishing, leisure, racing). For high-speed sailing, choose a high-speed and high-thrust propeller.
  3. Material Choice: High-quality materials can enhance the durability and performance of the propeller. Common materials include stainless steel and aluminum alloy. Stainless steel propellers are corrosion-resistant and suitable for saltwater environments; aluminum alloy propellers are lightweight and ideal for freshwater environments.
  4. Size and Shape: The size and shape of the propeller directly affect its performance. Larger propellers usually provide greater thrust but require higher power output. Choose the appropriate size and shape to balance performance and power requirements.
  5. Brand and Manufacturer: Choosing well-known brands and reliable manufacturers ensures product quality and after-sales service. Top brands include Mercury Racing, Bravo, Hill Marine, Propulse, and PowerTech.
Installation and Maintenance of Surface Drive Propellers
Installation
Professional Installation: Due to the unique design and high-performance requirements of Surface Drive Propellers, it is recommended that professionals handle the installation. Ensure the installer has relevant experience and qualifications to ensure safety and performance.
Installation Position: Ensure the propeller is installed in the correct position to minimize drag and optimize thrust. Typically, the propeller should be installed in the center at the stern and kept level.
Calibration and Testing: After installation, conduct detailed calibration and testing to ensure the propeller's performance is at its best. Check thrust, speed, and fuel efficiency, and make adjustments as needed.
Maintenance
Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect the propeller and its components to detect and address any wear or damage promptly. Pay special attention to the wear and bending of the propeller blades and the condition of bearings and seals.
Cleaning: Keep the propeller clean to prevent dirt and marine organisms from attaching. Use appropriate cleaners and tools to avoid damaging the propeller surface.
Lubrication: Regularly lubricate the propeller shaft and other moving parts to reduce friction and wear. Use the appropriate lubricant and follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
Anti-Corrosion Treatment: For propellers used in saltwater environments, anti-corrosion treatment is crucial. Use appropriate anti-corrosion coatings and protectants to extend the propeller's lifespan.
Winter Storage: During winter or long periods of non-use, take appropriate storage measures. Remove the propeller from the water, clean and dry it, and store it in a dry, well-ventilated place.
Contact us
If you have any questions about Surface Drive Propellers or need more information, please feel free to contact us. Our professional team will provide detailed consultation and support.

Recommended Surface Drive

BH450 is a surface drive system with a diameter of 400/450mm, with engine power between 80-130hp and suitable boat weight is 1.5-2.5T

BG750 is a surface drive system with a diameter of 660/750mm, with an engine power between 350-600hp, and the suitable boat weight is 10-40T
BG550 is a surface drive system with a diameter of 500/550mm, with engine power between 60-200hp, and the suitable boat weight is 2.5-5T

Application Of Surface Drive

TSD surfacedrive system provides excellent performance in professional applications of acceleration, high speed and endurance,high-speed ambulances, high-speed customs anti-smuggling boats, high-speed law enforcement supervision boats, high-speed racing boats, high-speed yachts, high-speed transport boats, military ships, tourist boats, have no cavitation erosion, low resistance, shallow draft and high efficiency when sailing at high speeds Characteristic, it is the preferred propulsion method for new high-speed ships in the world today.
Patrol Speed Boat
Patrol-Speed-Boat
High Speed Boat
High-Speed-Boat
Leisure Speedboat
Leisure-Speedboat
High Speed Yacht
High-Speed-Yacht
RIB Rescue Boat
RIB Rescue Boat

How Does A Surface Drive Work

The TSD-series Surface Drives are working near the water surface, with the blade part time in the water and the other part time spinning in the air . Above the surface of the propulsion system are the hafting which turns the trim angle and heeling angle . 
The TSD- series Surface Drives using adjusting the immersion of the SPP to match the sailing condition and adjusting the heeling angle to achieve the effect of thrust vector. The TSD- series Surface Drives have beter control perfomance than the common rudder propeller thruster .
 

Video Show

Customer Feedback

Plan Communication

TSD Surface Drive specializes in high-durability surface-piercing propellers and advanced marine surface drive systems specifically designed for high-speed vessels. Once the essential boat parameters are received from clients, TSD Surface Drive's expert engineers conduct comprehensive technical evaluations to assess feasibility and ensure precise fitment. Leveraging state-of-the-art analysis tools and methodologies, they meticulously match the most suitable surface drive systems, ensuring optimal performance, efficiency, and compatibility. Their commitment to innovation and quality guarantees that their products meet the highest industry standards, providing reliable and robust solutions for all high-speed marine applications.

Designing Process

Based on the specific specifications and requirements provided by our clients, TSD Surface Drive's engineers deliver comprehensive and customized solutions to meet customer needs. Our expert team meticulously designs and engineers complete systems, including engines, gearboxes, and surface drives, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance. Each system can be tailored to match the precise requirements of individual projects, guaranteeing the best possible fit and functionality.

Furthermore, TSD Surface Drive is committed to supporting our clients throughout the entire planning and implementation process. We provide detailed 2D drawings, offering clear and precise visualizations of the proposed systems. This ensures that clients can fully understand the configurations and make informed decisions. Our dedication to quality and precision in every aspect of our production process underscores our commitment to delivering reliable and robust solutions for high-speed marine applications.

Production Processes

After assembling the TSD series surface drive propulsion devices, the company implements rigorous quality control protocols to ensure optimal performance and reliability. This process includes precision laser inspections, as well as static and dynamic balance assessments of the machined blades.
Furthermore, the assembled units undergo specific duration idle tests and dynamic load evaluations. To guarantee durability, the company conducts comprehensive load operation tests on both the device and blades within a specially constructed circulating pool. An essential component of our
quality assurance process is the bench joint debugging test of the integrated hydraulic control system, which is critical in validating the reliability and overall quality of our products.
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Packing and Transportation
Our TSD surface drive systems are securely packaged in export-grade wooden crates that comply with international shipping standards. We offer flexible transportation options, including sea, air, and land, tailored to your specific needs. If you have any special requirements, please contact us in advance to ensure we can accommodate your request.

TSD Surface Drives Certification

Our propulsion systems can be certified by the main classification societies.ABS, CCS... ISO 9001:2015/ISO 9001:2015 - Certification.Design, development and manufacturing of marine supporting products (movable surface drive, fixed surface drive, gearbox).

Certificates

CCS-BH850
CCS-BH750
CCS-BG750
证书3
证书2
证书1
FAQ
  • Q The correct position for installing a surface drive system

    A The correct position for installing a surface drive system:
    The nut on the propeller blade should be positioned 10mm below the boat's transom extension line. However, for some light-loaded high-speed boats, the position may vary slightly, such as being 20mm below the transom extension line.
    The main engine and the transmission shaft should form a straight line, not a large angle. If the engine is revved up and the prop system remains unchanged, the universal joint cage of the coupling will have an angle instead of a straight line, which can cause damage to the coupling cage over time.
    While tilting the engine, the half-immersed propeller and the shaft should also be tilted at the same angle to form a straight line.
  • Q How long is the warranty period for surface drive systems?

    A The warranty period for surface drive systems is typically 18 months, which means that within this period, if there is any malfunction or damage to the parts, the customer can return the damaged parts to the manufacturer for repair or replacement. During the warranty period, the manufacturer will provide free parts and technical support. If the equipment fails or is damaged outside the warranty period, the customer needs to purchase the corresponding parts from the manufacturer and the manufacturer will provide technical support. During the warranty period, only damaged parts are covered by the warranty, and not the damage caused by normal use, which the user will have to bear. The responsibility for shipping costs will also differ depending on whether it is within or outside the warranty period, and specific details need to be checked in the manufacturer's warranty terms and conditions.
  • Q Installation angles for BG and BH surface drive systems

    A Surface drive systems typically come in two installation types: BG and BH. These installation types have different installation angles.
    The installation angle for a BG surface drive system is 45 degrees.
    The installation angle for a BH surface drive system is 10-13 degrees.
    If the installation angle is outside of these ranges, a stainless steel box is needed to connect the surface drive system.
  • Q How long is the service life of the surface drive system?

    A The lifespan of a surface drive system depends on various factors, such as the usage environment, frequency of use, maintenance, and so on. In a good environment, the lifespan of a surface drive system can usually be over 10 years. However, in extreme environments, such as waters with high humidity up to 95%, water temperature up to 38, and high salt content, the lifespan of surface drives may be shortened to around 5-6 years. Regular maintenance is necessary to ensure the normal operation and extend the lifespan of the surface drive system.
  • Q How to Maintain Surface Drive Systems and Prevent Corrosion?

    A Cleaning: Regularly clean the surface drive system with soap and water to prevent the formation of marine organisms and scale. Lubrication: Replace the oil seal and lubricating oil every 1000 hours. This will help prevent excessive wear on the surface drive system.
    Replace the corrosion-resistant zinc block: The surface drive system is usually equipped with a corrosion-resistant zinc block to prevent seawater corrosion and weaken the corrosion of the drive system by seawater. If the zinc block is severely corroded, it needs to be replaced with a new one.
    Regular Inspection: The surface drive system should be regularly inspected to ensure that all parts of the drive system are in normal working condition. The inspection should include wires, cables, and all connection components.
  • Q Difference Between Surface Drive Systems with different Numbers of Blades

    A The main difference between surface drive systems with different numbers of blades is their performance range and adaptability to different load conditions.
    Regarding the specific blade number selection, a 4-blade system generates less propulsion force and is suitable for low-speed and light-load situations. A 6-blade system provides more propulsion force and is suitable for full-load conditions. A 5- The blade system can balance and consider both light and full-load situations, providing moderate propulsion force and higher speed, thus being widely used in different types of vessels.
  • Q The Difference Between BH and BG Surface Drive Systems

    A
    BH and BG surface drive systems differ mainly in their mobility. BH surface drive is mobile, allowing it to turn left and right and move up and down to avoid damage from underwater obstacles, thus increasing the lifespan of the propeller. On the other hand, BG surface drive is fixed and lacks the up-and-down movement function, but it shares the same functions as BH surface drive. The advantage of BG surface drive is its relatively lower cost-effectiveness, as it does not require moving parts, resulting in lower manufacturing costs.
    In terms of installation, BG surface drive requires an angle of approximately 45 degrees at the stern of the boat for installation. If the angle difference is too great, an additional box must be purchased to adjust the installation angle. BH surface drive, on the other hand, has no special installation requirements.
     
  • Q How to choose the gear ratio for a gearbox?

    A The gear ratio of the gearbox is usually adjusted based on the torque of the surface drive. The reduction ratio = propeller torque: engine torque; for example, if the propeller torque is 600 and the engine torque is 400, then the reduction ratio of the gearbox is 600:400=1.5:1.
    When matching a gearbox for customers who already have an engine, it is necessary to have a detailed understanding of the engine's rated power, torque curve, maximum torque, and other data. These data will help determine the accurate reduction ratio of the gearbox.
    It should be noted that the reduction ratio of the gearbox is generally determined before leaving the factory and cannot be adjusted arbitrarily during use.
  • Q How to choose an engine to use with a surface drive system?

    A The following factors need to be considered: Power output: A surface drive system requires a high-speed and efficient propeller, so an engine with a high speed of 2000 RPM or more should be selected.
    Inboard use: A surface drive system needs to be connected to the engine and gearbox for inboard use, so an engine suitable for inboard use should be chosen.
    Reliability and maintainability: A reliable and easy-to-maintain engine should be chosen to ensure stability and reliability in long-term use.
    Environmental friendliness and fuel efficiency: An engine that meets environmental standards should be selected, and one with high fuel efficiency can reduce fuel consumption and environmental impact.
  • Q The Operating Principle of Surface Drive Systems

    A
    Surface drive systems are a type of marine propulsion system that utilizes the pressure difference between the hull and the water surface to generate propulsion. During low-speed operation, the propeller blades are fully submerged and push the vessel in a conventional manner. However, during High-speed operation, the hull automatically lifts, exposing half of the propeller blades to reduce water resistance and increase propulsion force.
    When the propeller blade height needs to be adjusted, the crew can use lift buttons to control the blade position to adapt to different navigation conditions. Surface drive systems are widely used in high-speed yachts, military ships, commercial vessels, and other fields to increase ship speed and reduce fuel consumption.
     
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GB/T19001-2016/IS09001:2015.
This certificate is valid to the following scope for QMS: ^DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MANUFACTURE OF MARINE ACCESSORY PRODUCTS (MOVABLE SEMIIMMERSED OAR, FIXED SEMI-IMMERSION OAR, GEAR BOX)*.
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