DDG 51 High-Efficiency Propeller Design Report

The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Carderock Division (NSWC CD) has developed an 18-foot diameter propeller that may provide improved fuel efficiency for the DDG 51 Class of ships. The 18-foot propeller is comprised of multiple blades that are mounted to an existing hub. Implementation of the 18-foot propeller will require validation that the existing DDG propeller hub is compatible with the loads generated by the new propeller. Additionally, a cost and schedule estimate for the drawing, engineering support and manufacture of a ship-set of blades of this design is being requested. This award is to be made on a Sole Source Basis.