This tool estimates the percentage of propeller slippage, which is the difference between the theoretical distance a boat should travel based on propeller pitch and the actual distance covered. It uses inputs such as propeller pitch, engine RPM, gear ratio, and boat speed to calculate this percentage. A common application of this calculation involves assessing the efficiency of a boat’s propulsion system.
Understanding the degree of disparity between predicted and actual travel distance provides valuable insights into overall performance. Higher percentages may indicate issues such as a damaged propeller, excessive load on the boat, or an improperly matched propeller for the hull design. Examining this aspect of performance contributes to efficient operation, potentially reducing fuel consumption and improving handling characteristics. Historically, this type of assessment involved manual calculations; modern tools automate this process.