ABSTRACT: In this Final Degree Project, it is intended to carry out a technical study of fixed pitch and control-pitch propellers, as well as an economic and comparative study of both propellers. First of all, it will be defined what a propeller is and the parts of which it is formed, the cavitation and ventilation phenomena that can be formed in the propeller will also be discussed. Afterwards, a small classification will be carried out depending on the number of blades that make up each propeller, and comments will be made on the different propulsion systems that can be found today in a merchant ship. The next part of the work will focus on the technical study of fixed pitch and variable pitch propellers. We will study each type of propeller, where we will comment on the design characteristics of each one, as well as the type of merchant ship where each type of propeller is installed. We will also discuss the auxiliary systems necessary in the engine room so that each propeller can work correctly. Once the technical study is finished, we will prepare to carry out an economic study of each type of propellant. To develop this, we will focus on three fundamental factors; number of blades, diameter and material used. With these factors in play, we will determine the approximate prices of each propeller in the current market, since these are manufactured specifically according to the characteristics of each ship and its hull. Thus, with the realization of the analysis, we will make a comparison of each type of propeller and we will assess which of them is more convenient to install nowadays with the aim of reaching final conclusions.
