The SS United States’ Propellers

c02.3-Propellers.jpg

Did you know…

The SS United States was fitted with four propellers — two four-bladed and two five-bladed. This configuration was tested and selected for its superior hydrodynamic performance, and the design was overseen by the pioneering Gibbs & Cox female engineer Elaine Kaplan.

All of the propellers were manufactured from manganese bronze. Each weighed an astounding 60,000 pounds. 

Did you also know that four of the ship’s propellers have been preserved and can be viewed by the public?