What is the function of a reduction gear in a marine propulsion system?

The function of a reduction gear in a marine propulsion system is primarily to connect turbines with the shaft while also converting the high-speed, low-torque output of a marine turbine into a lower-speed, high-torque rotation suitable for driving the propeller or other propulsion components. In marine applications, turbines typically operate at very high RPMs, and directly connecting them to the propeller would not be feasible or efficient due to the differences in required speeds.

The reduction gear accomplishes this vital task by employing gears that reduce the rotational speed from the turbine while increasing the torque available to turn the propeller. This allows the propulsion system to operate more effectively and ensures that the ship can achieve greater maneuverability and efficiency under various operational conditions.

In summary, the reduction gear is an essential component that optimizes the relationship between turbine and propeller performance, facilitating effective marine propulsion.