Jan 12
23
Eliminating Cavitation
Boaters who know a great deal about propellers understand the importance of choosing one that will exhibit as little cavitation as possible. Nissan outboard propellers, like all marine propellers, are not completely immune to cavitation issues. However, when Nissan outboard props are correctly paired with an appropriate choice of motor, cavitation can certainly be minimized. But what exactly is cavitation?
Cavitation: The Basics
Cavitation is a natural consequence of the action of a propeller underwater; the phenomenon has long been understood in a physics context. Cavitation happens when small cavities in water are formed and then are instantly filled in with liquid. It results from rapid alterations to the pressure being exerted on a section of water. Cavities form because pressure is lower for a fraction of a second and they fill in as pressure increases.
Why Excessive Cavitation Should be Avoided
Too much cavitation can cause wear and tear on moving parts of an engine. One common kind of this wear and tear manifests itself as metal fatigue on the surface areas of a propeller. Just as a strong wire can be made to break by bending it back and forth too many times, so can surface areas become damaged as cavitation stresses them.
Marine propellers are tested in a wide variety of contexts during design in order to enhance characteristics that will help to reduce cavitation. Still, the best way to reduce it still further is to make sure that your aftermarket Nissan outboard propellers solution produces a good match with your motor.