Ship Propulsion and Shafting Vocabulary Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms, component functions, and materials related to marine propeller shafting systems.

Thrust Bearing (Thrust Block)

A propulsion component that enables axial load transmission into the hull structure by transmitting thrust from the propeller to the ship hull.

Stern Tube

A component with a bearing that supports the tailshaft as it exits the hull while ensuring watertight integrity.

Rope Guard

A protective device fitted to prevent rope or fishing net entanglement around the propeller.

Oil Lubricated Stern Tube Bearing

A shaft support component that prevents seawater ingress and supports the propeller shaft.

Nickel Aluminium Bronze

A material commonly used for propeller construction.

Controllable Pitch Propeller (CPP)

A type of propeller that allows blade angle adjustment during operation.

Aftermost Tunnel Bearing

A specific shaft bearing that supports the shaft from both above and below.

Lignum Vitae

A natural wood material commonly used alongside synthetic composites for non-metallic bearings.

Stuffing Box

A shaft seal type used to create a seal around a rotating shaft as it passes through a bulkhead or stern tube.

Thrust Collar

A component on a shaft that interfaces with thrust pads to absorb axial load.

Michell Thrust Bearing

A thrust bearing that utilizes multiple adjustable pads to create hydrodynamic oil wedges for load support.

Plummer Blocks (Intermediate Bearings)

Bearings that support the intermediate shafting between the engine and propeller to reduce vibration.

Flanged Coupling

A mechanical link used to connect shaft segments together, typically assembled using interference fit with bolts tightened to the elasticity limit.

Skewback Propeller

A propeller design used in submarines to reduce noise and vibration.

Tail Shaft

The aftermost shaft section that connects directly to the propeller.

Fluid Film Thrust Bearing

A bearing mechanism that relies on a hydrodynamic oil wedge formed between tilting pads and the shaft collar.

Vesconite Composites

A material innovation used to improve wear resistance in stave bearings.

V-Drive System

A marine propulsion configuration where the engine is mounted reversed with a forward gearbox.

Thin-Shell Bearing Lining

A bearing lining material for thin shell bearings that offers high fatigue resistance and good embedability.