Mechanical, Structural and Dynamic Characterisation of Water Aged Composite Marine Propeller

Marine propeller is the device which has to spend more of its life span under water. Recent studies shows that glass fibre Reinforced polymer (GFRP) composite material can be used to make marine propeller. On the other hand composite material properties were changing when exposed to water environment. In present work GFRP composite materials prepared by hand layup technique. Samples are subjected ageing with saline water (equivalent to sea water) for 15 days, 30 days and 45days, water uptake pattern was recorded as per ASTM D570. Unexposed GFRP and Aged GFRP samples were tested as per ASTM D638. Static structural and free vibration analysis carried on composite marine propeller using Optistruct solver with obtained mechanical properties. The results revealed that water ageing show much impact on the tensile strength than modulus. FEA results shows that the water ageing showing very little impact on displacement and vibration behaviour of composite marine propeller.