Propeller polishing removes marine growth from the surface of propeller blades, which may significantly reduce fuel consumption, enhance reliability and extend maintenance cycles of vessels.

The process is typically conducted within a 12-hour period while the vessel is at berth, loading or discharging. Research has shown that the adoption of a propeller polishing routine generates significant savings. For example, it is typically believed that proper propeller maintenance should result in fuel savings per annum of at least 10% depending on vessel activity and extent of layups.

Akbar Traders recommends the 3M Hull Cleaning & Propeller polishing discs with 3M disc pads to achieve a high quality mirror like finish (where propeller casting allows). Before and after photos supplied

Underwater Hull Cleaning
Heads up!Fuel Saving is the major reason for making underwater hull cleaning an integral part of planned maintenance. The sea organisms which get caught on the hull and the propeller of any ship reduce its designated speed and result in significantly increased fuel consumption. In fact, it has been estimated that without any attempt to control fouling, shipping would require 40% more power, equal to about 72 million tones of additional fuel per year (Royal Institution of Naval Architects, London).
A build up of marine fouling can lead to increased drag, resulting in a detrimental impact on a vessel’s hydrodynamic performance and hence the relationship between speed, power performance and fuel consumption. Fouling, particularly in the case of a prolific build up of ‘hard or shell fouling’ like barnacles or tubeworm, can cause turbulence, cavitation and noise, frequently affecting the performance of somers, speed logs and other hull mounted sensors.