Underwater ship propeller cleaning is a crucial aspect of ship maintenance, as it helps to maintain the ship’s performance and prevent costly repairs. Marine growth and debris can accumulate on the propeller blades, leading to reduced efficiency and increased fuel consumption. Here are some important aspects to consider for underwater ship propeller cleaning:
Methods of Underwater Ship Propeller Cleaning
There are several methods for cleaning ship propellers underwater, including:
- Brush cleaning: This method involves using brushes and scrapers to remove marine growth and other debris from the propeller blades. It is a common method and can be done by divers or remotely operated vehicles (ROVs).
- High-pressure water jetting: This method involves using high-pressure water jets to remove marine growth and other debris from the propeller blades. It is more efficient than brush cleaning and can be used to clean hard-to-reach areas.
- Ultrasonic cleaning: This method uses high-frequency sound waves to remove marine growth and other debris from the propeller blades. It is a newer technology and is generally more expensive than other methods.


Underwater ship propeller cleaning is important to maintain the ship’s performance and prevent damage to the propeller blades. A fouled propeller can increase the ship’s drag, reduce its speed, and increase fuel consumption. In addition, marine growth can cause corrosion and damage to the propeller blades, leading to costly repairs or even replacement.
Regular propeller cleaning can help prevent these issues and keep the ship running efficiently. The frequency of cleaning depends on various factors such as the vessel’s operating conditions, the type of marine growth, and the type of propeller coating. Some vessels may require cleaning every few months, while others may only need it once a year.
In conclusion, underwater ship propeller cleaning is an important part of ship maintenance that helps to maintain the ship’s performance and prevent damage to the propeller blades. There are various methods for cleaning the propeller blades, and it is important to follow safety and environmental regulations to ensure the safety of divers and minimize the impact on the marine environment.