Safety (Guard vs. Propeller)

[Question]

Hi,

I was reading the forum and some other sites about the pros and cons of apparatus so called propeller guards (what I'm looking for is a guard against the propeller actually ), then I came across with this:

http://www.abc.net.au/tv/newinventors/txt/s2736928.htm

What do you think?

Q

PS: I couldn't find one, but if there's already a thread about this please redirect me : )

[donegaldan]

Nice find.

Wonder what the performance is like v's ali and stainless.
Be interesting to see if it ever makes it to market.
handy for safety boats, and might even save a gear box or two.
be interested to see has anyone seen of them before.

God I'm full of questions on a friday night....
DonegalDan

[SeaSkills]

There was some talk of this when I was in Western Australia before Christmas. It certainly sounds interesting. There is some more information and discussion here; http://rbbi.com/pgic/ptech/safetypro...ypropeller.htm

I won't be rushing out to get one until it's been tried and tested, but I do think this worth watching

Ian

[Simon B]

Looked like a large leading edge so pressure is reduced. This would lead to less slicing of the water also. My initial guess would be a big drop in efficiency/performance. It'll spin as fast yes but not deliver.

The key is training and awareness, divers operate near props but accidents are rare. If you are really concerned a jet is the best option however expect a 25-30% in hp and a corresponding hike in fuel use.

My lottery fantasy boat has jets of course!

[Question]

Originally Posted by Simon B

... jet is the best option however expect a 25-30% in hp and a corresponding hike in fuel use...

A jet would only be a long term project for us either, thus it seems I'll stick with conventional prop guards for now.

Thanks for the replies.

Best

Q

[sarahscottiedog]

Hooray what a great idea! would love to see and trial one just to see what the performance is like, and find out how much they cost. Any one find a price for one anywhere ? or if they are available in the UK?

[Simon B]

A long time ago we tried one of these;

Propguard

It got destroyed before I could get a realistic experience of of good or bad it was.

[sarahscottiedog]

SO how did it "get destroyed" ? Operator error ? or failure ?

[Simon B]

Operator error most definitely, they got to close to rocks and were pushed against them by the waves. We did not re-fit another one and it is still my worst nightmare as a dive boat handler. All commercial dive ribs I've seen do not have prop guards either.

[boristhebold]

Originally Posted by Question

Hi,

I was reading the forum and some other sites about the pros and cons of apparatus so called propeller guards (what I'm looking for is a guard against the propeller actually ), then I came across with this:

http://www.abc.net.au/tv/newinventors/txt/s2736928.htm

What do you think?

Q

PS: I couldn't find one, but if there's already a thread about this please redirect me : )

I cant see how it would work, I dont fancy sticking my arm in tio find out