What are the differences between Fixed Pitch Propeller and Controllable Pitch Propeller?
Following are the key differences between Fixed Pitch Propeller and Controllable Pitch Propeller
| Sl. No | Solid / Fixed Pitch Propeller | Controllable Pitch Propeller |
| 1 | Speed of Ship is controlled by varying the speed of Engine | Speed of the ship is controlled by varying the pitch of the propeller |
| 2 | Engine with varying speed is required | Engine with constant speed is enough |
| 3 | Hence Shaft driven auxiliary cannot be fitted | Hence Shaft driven auxiliary can be fitted |
| 4 | Astern movement of the ship is by reversing the engine {engine should be of reversing type} | Astern movement of the ship is by varying the pitch of the propeller {unidirectional engine is enough] |
| 5 | Full power of the engine is not available during astern running | Full power of the engine will be available during astern running also |
| 6 | Hence Stopping time and distance is more | Hence Stopping time and distance is less |
| 7 | Manoeuvring in confined water is difficult | Maneuvering in confined water is difficult |
| 8 | Propeller efficiency is more | Propeller efficiency is less since large diameter boss/hub is required |
| 9 | Cost is low | Cost is high |
| 10 | Maneuvering in confined water is easy | The cost of repair and maintenance is less |