HydroComp PropExpert Released - Hydrocomp Inc.

HydroComp, Inc.
September 3, 2013
HydroComp PropExpert ® Released
New user-driven update for the industry standard propeller sizing tool
Employed by more than 230 professionals in more than 20 countries, HydroComp
PropExpert is the industry’s most widely used propeller sizing tool for inboard-driven
workboats and pleasure craft. First introduced in 1996, PropExpert was principally
developed to provide a reliable technical tool for the propeller sales process. It is used for
application sizing and performance assessment by manufacturers and distributors of
marine propellers, engines and transmissions. The latest 2013 release of PropExpert
leverages some of the interface framework recently established for HydroComp’s
flagship NavCad® software, and includes new technical features that are critical to
proper propeller sizing and analysis for contemporary high-power vessels.
New technical capabilities
HydroComp has an active internal research and development program with the objective
of delivering new capabilities for PropExpert and HydroComp’s other software products.
Many of the R&D projects are in direct response to end-user requests or HydroComp’s
own assessment of new industry requirements.
For this most recent upgrade, substantial effort has focused on improving prediction
accuracy for Gawn-style propellers. Supported by a small core of users, HydroComp
undertook the development of an improved algorithm for the GawnAEW propeller series
that affects high-BAR five-bladed propellers. This new algorithm insures the highest
confidence of any propeller sizing software for vessels running high-powered engines
with shaft-driven propellers.
Figure 1 – Sizing and analysis details summary
Updated interface and enhanced user experience
PropExpert has been given a more modern look-and-feel, with user-definable page sizes
and theme colors. It is essential that PropExpert users have a positive relationship with

their own customers – one that promotes technical confidence and reliability. The new
interface helps provide a professional setting for one-on-one sessions with customers or
during demonstrations to potential customers at trade shows.
PropExpert 2013 supports the same file format as prior versions, so historical data
integrity is maintained. The calculation process has not changed, so existing users can
seamlessly pick up PropExpert 2013 and begin new work immediately.
Recent updates
Figure 2 – HydroComp PropExpert 2013 interface
In addition to the technical improvements for this newest version, recent updates for
PropExpert include features for high-efficiency cruising and support for new vessel types
– Catamarans and Riverboats; electric motor propulsion; enhanced Sailboat features
(including “folding” propellers); expanded scope for ducted propellers.
About HydroComp
Celebrating its 29th year of operation in 2013, HydroComp provides software and
services for resistance and propulsion prediction, propeller sizing and design, and
forensic performance analysis. HydroComp is proud to have served over 700 industry,
research, academic, and government clients from more than 60 countries.
For more information, please contact:
Donald MacPherson, Technical Director
HydroComp, Inc.
13 Jenkins Ct, Suite 200
Durham, NH 03824 USA
Tel (603)868-3344
Fax (603)868-3366
dm@hydrocompinc.com
www.hydrocompinc.com
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