What Is an Aluminum Propeller?
An aluminum propeller specifically refers to a type of propeller with blades made from aluminum or aluminum-based alloys.
Commonly used in outboard motors for marine applications, these propellers are often called aluminum propellers, though they are crafted from a nickel-aluminum bronze alloy. They are popular due to their lightweight nature and cost-effectiveness. However, aluminum propellers are more susceptible to scratches and deformation compared to other materials.
Historically, ship propellers have been made from copper alloys, favored for their resistance to seawater corrosion and ease of fabrication. The practice of referring to nickel-aluminum bronze alloy propellers as aluminum propellers stems from their copper content. As concerns over copper mining’s environmental impact grow and costs rise, there is ongoing research into alternative materials like carbon fiber-reinforced composites (CFRP) for propeller manufacturing.