Marine Engineer how-to

How to Size a Ship’s Propulsion System

Propulsion sets speed and fuel use.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Propulsion sets speed and fuel use. In short: estimate; set; calculate, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Estimate resistance.

  2. Set target speed.

  3. Calculate power.

  4. Pick engines.

  5. Pick propellers.

  6. Check margins.

Safety reminders for marine engineers

  • Follow shipyard safety
  • Design to class rules
  • Plan for fire and flooding
  • Wear PPE at sea trials

ABET · PE license · FE exam · CAD · Specification · Hull: see the full marine engineer glossary.

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