The manufacturing process of propeller shafts involves forging, cutting, and heat treatment. Forging strengthens the internal structure of the shaft material, improving its strength and toughness. After forging, the shaft is cut to achieve precise dimensions and a smooth surface. This includes machining key slots, threads, and other features on the shaft body to accommodate couplings and other components.
Solid shaft is a simple and direct type of propeller shaft, whose entire shaft body is a solid metal cylinder.
Solid shafts are suitable for small and medium-sized ships, especially those that require high strength for propeller shafts but are less sensitive to weight. Hollow shafts are widely used in large ships and ships that are sensitive to weight.
For example, on large ocean going oil tankers, container ships, and other vessels, the weight of hollow shafts is relatively light, which can effectively reduce the self weight of the vessel, thereby improving its carrying capacity and fuel economy.
The propeller shaft needs to withstand enormous axial force, torque, and bending force during operation.
Its strength and stability are directly related to the structural integrity of the ship. If the propeller shaft breaks due to insufficient strength or fatigue damage, it may cause the propeller to detach, leading to severe shaking, loss of balance, and even sinking of the ship.
Therefore, the propeller shaft must have sufficient strength and fatigue resistance to ensure safe and reliable operation during long-term sea navigation.
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