Improvements in the Screw Propeller

Improvements in the Screw Propeller

From Scientific American, Volume 10, Issue 40, pp. 318. June 16, 1855.

A brass screw propeller, embracing all the improvements recently patented by Mr. Griffiths, has been cast at the Vauxhall Foundry, Liverpool, 16 ft. 6 in. diameter, and weigh ing 8 tons, intended for the United States war frigate, Princeton. The principal peculiarity in Griffiths' propeller is that the blades are wider at the root than at the other extremity, and tapering gradually, quite different to the generally adopted principle. This form offers no obstruction to the vessel when under canvas, nor does it affect her steering properties, qualities which have been proved by numerous Admiralty experiments; it thus supersedes the necessity of raising the screw when not used, which involves considerable trouble and labor; and the unsightly and cumbrous well case passing through the chief cabin is not required, and the room saved, effecting a saving in first cost. Another great advantage consists in the facility of replacing a broken or injured blade, and of taking them out and altering the pitch. It also prevents all vibration, so destructive and unpleasant. We understand two other propellers on this principle are being constructed for the Royal Navy by R. Daglish, Jr.

[The above is from the Liverpool Mercury. It is the first we have heard of this affair,-our Government going to Liverpool for a propeller. We do not feel complimented by the act.]

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