So you choose the right maneuvering propeller for your boat (and maneuver better)

How do I make the right maneuvering propeller for my boat? There are many types on the market with different uses and functions. Propellers
QS Seamaster
are relatively new to the market, but their arrival has certainly not gone unnoticed. They originate from two companies that have been in the market for a long time(Saim Marine and Quick Spa) and have one goal: to be as technologically advanced as possible. The range is comprehensive and includes DC, AC, brushless DC-AC, retractable and hydraulic propellers from 40 to 1100 kgf thrust, with analog or digital, on/off or proportional controls.

QS Seamaster maneuvering propellers

A first element to evaluate is the type of boat I have and likewise the use I make of it. Added to this then is the price factor. QS Seamaster has a range from “entry-level” solutions for eight-meter boats to high-end products for powerboats over 30 meters. A higher level of technology often corresponds to higher effectiveness and, for example, more important use possibilities. Let’s look at some more details with some technical insights that can help you identify the best solution for you.

How to control maneuvering propellers

Before we get into the details of in-range propellers, an in-depth look at how they are handled. QS Seamaster maneuvering propellers have mainly 3 types of control.

• ON/OFF system-The first is the on/off system and is the simplest. In our hands we will probably have a panel with a lever that goes in two directions or two buttons. As the name suggests, when we activate it, the propeller with on/off system immediately runs at full speed, with no possibility to manage speed and intensity.

• APMS – Analog proportional controls. With these controls we go up a level going to see a system that provides touch buttons or single and dual joysticks depending on the system installed. The first strength is that they offer flexibility and ease of use even with multiple installations even in parallel. Being proportional we can go to adjust the intensity and consequently the “power” used.

• DPMS – Digital proportional controls. With these controls of QS Seamaster we are at the top in the world of thruster controls. This system allows great flexibility and ease of use and is offered as standard only with hydraulic and three-phase thrusters, while on all other ranges it is optional. Among the strengths is reliability since DPMS is the most advanced system also due to the use of the CAN-bus standard. A tidbit? This tool allows the connection of inhomogeneous thrusters to each other, and they can also be interfaced with networks and controls of external systems. The MSD digital display allows all necessary information to be viewed and provides adequate diagnostics useful in troubleshooting.

DC Propellers – QS Seamaster

The electric maneuvering propellers in the QS range are the most “classic,” entry-level propellers in the range with options for customization. They feature a DC motor combined with a control device that prevents the motor from overheating. At the same time, it does not hinder the boat’s maneuverability or interrupt the use of the thruster in an emergency. Basically they are equipped with an on/off system, but like all models they can also be equipped with proportional controls or be converted later to proportional.

Dimensions: for boats from 8 to 30 meters

QSB DC-AC Brush-less Propellers – QS Seamaster

Moving up a level we find the propellers in the QSB range. They are proportional and have a number of advantages over traditional propellers. Characterized by the absence of graphite brushes (less maintenance over time), they are very efficient and have a longer operating time. This means that maneuvering becomes less “stressful” and you can rely on propeller support for longer. At the same time, they can be powered by any DC, so installation is no longer constrained by power supply. The two propellers are counter-rotating.

Dimensions: for boats from 13 to 30 meters

QSA – AC MANEUVERING PROPELLERS

Going even higher in terms of technology we find the QSA range dedicated to medium to large boats. These thrusters take advantage of three-phase on-board voltage with a whole range of advantages. First of all, the time of use which is unlimited. They are then, already as standard, proportional and equipped with dual counter-rotating propellers. Starting with the QSA 300-300 model, they also have composite or NiBrAl propellers in addition to RINA Type Approval.

Dimensions: for boats from 13 to 50 meters

QSH – MANEUVERING PROPELLERS HYDRAULICS

They are less common in the marketplace, particularly in the recreational sector, but QSH’s range of hydraulic maneuvering propellers is undoubtedly among the most comprehensive around. The underlying elements are the high-quality components and the particularly compact and capacious tanks make the QSH range top among hydraulic maneuvering thrusters.

Dimensions: for boats from 10 to 45 meters

For more information, visit the QS-Seamaster website.

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