Overview
EN ISO 3715-2:2002 (ISO 3715-2:2001) provides a standardized vocabulary for controllable-pitch propeller plants, focusing exclusively on continuously variable, hydraulically operated controllable‑pitch propeller (CPP) units. This part defines terms and definitions for CPP components, control systems and pitch concepts to ensure consistent language across design, procurement, operation and maintenance documentation. It does not cover CPP units with only a few fixed pitch settings. General propeller geometry vocabulary is covered separately in ISO 3715-1.
Key topics
The standard organizes clear definitions for components, control elements and pitch-related concepts used in CPP plants, including:
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Mechanical components
- Blade, blade attachment, blade bearing, blade seal
- Hub, hub connection, flange protection
- Propeller shaft, intermediate shaft, oil-transfer tube
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Hydraulic and control elements
- Hydraulic unit (pumps, valves, tanks, filters, coolers)
- Oil-distribution box, servomotor (piston and cylinder), pitch-actuating rod
- Control transmission, control mechanism, feedback system, pitch indicator
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Control systems and modes
- Control unit vs. remote control system and manual control system
- Pitch control, pitch‑keeping pressure, pitch‑changing pressure
- Take-home equipment (ability to operate as fixed-blade in case of control failure)
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Pitch and operating positions
- Design pitch, nominal pitch, maximum ahead/astern pitch, range of pitch angle
- Commanded pitch vs. actual pitch, tolerance of pitch setting, time for pitch changing
- Zero thrust position, feathering position, trailing position, windmilling
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Pressure and testing terminology
- Nominal pressure, testing pressure
Note: ISO 3715-2 defines terms only; it does not prescribe performance limits or design methods. The standard indicates a preferred pitch location at about 0.7R (design guidance noted in the document).
Applications
EN ISO 3715-2 is practical for anyone involved with ship propulsion plants where controllable‑pitch propellers are used. Typical users and uses include:
- Shipbuilders and naval architects - harmonize specifications and drawings
- Marine propulsion manufacturers and suppliers - consistent product documentation
- Marine engineers, ship operators and maintenance crews - clear manuals, fault reporting and training
- Classification societies and regulators - consistent terminology in surveys and rules
- Procurement and contract authors - reduce ambiguity in tender documents and acceptance tests
- Technical authors and trainers - standardized glossaries for instruction manuals and courses
Common applications: specification writing, commissioning tests, maintenance procedures, crew training, troubleshooting and cross-vendor communication.
Related standards
- ISO 3715-1 - Ships and marine technology: Vocabulary for geometry of propellers (general propeller geometry terms used with CPP).
- EN ISO 3715-2:2002 – European adoption of ISO 3715-2:2001 (national implementation across CEN member states).
Using EN ISO 3715-2 helps ensure clear, unambiguous communication about controllable‑pitch propeller plants across design, operation and regulatory contexts.
