Discover how our Controllable Pitch Propeller (CPP) can improve your vessel’s performance, maneuverability, and operational efficiency. At Berg Propulsion, we offer advanced CPP systems designed to meet the toughest demands at sea.
Controllable pitch propellers represent a major advantage in maritime propulsion. Unlike fixed pitch propellers, CPP systems enable continuous adjustment of blade angles to match varying operational conditions — such as changes in speed, load, or maneuvering requirements. This adaptability results in greater fuel efficiency, improved thrust, and enhanced maneuverability.
At the core of the CPP system is a mechanism that alters the propeller blades pitch. By adjusting the propeller pitch, CPPs control the hydrodynamic angle of attack and propeller efficiency. Ensuring responsive handling whether accelerating, reversing, or performing precise low-speed maneuvers. Additionally, CPPs can provide lower thrust during maneuvers compared to fixed pitch propellers (FPPs), which are limited by minimum engine RPM, further enhancing maneuverability. These capabilities make CPPs a preferred choice for a wide range of vessel types operating in dynamic maritime environments.
Berg Propulsion’s CPP systems take this proven technology even further. With robust engineering, built in condition monitoring, and exceptional adaptability, our systems are built to deliver optimal propulsion performance and reliability — even under the most demanding conditions.
Built on decades of innovation and field-proven experience, our CPP system offers several powerful advantages for a wide range of vessel types and operational demands.
Our hydrodynamically optimized CPP blades are designed to perform under any conditions. By adjusting the pitch propeller blades in real-time, vessels can maintain optimal engine load and reduce fuel consumption—resulting in lower operational costs and improved energy efficiency.
The adjustable pitch enables instant and precise thrust control, giving operators full command during docking, slow-speed navigation, and emergency maneuvers. This flexibility is especially critical in tight or congested environments where precision is key.
Thanks to the CPP’s ability to balance engine load and avoid overload, wear and tear is reduced. By ensuring the main engine operates at optimal load over time, our CPP also contributes to correct utilization of the vessel’s power plant, driving reduced fuel consumption. Combined with our robust design and materials, this ensures a longer operational life and reduced maintenance needs.
Our CPP hubs feature a unique oil-circulating system with integrated moisture monitoring, which enhances reliability and allows for early detection of issues. This closed system supports cleaner operation, less contamination, and longer intervals between service.
Minimized noise and vibration is not just more comfortable – it also protects your vessel. Our propeller blade design minimizes vibrations and noise, enhancing onboard experience and reducing fatigue on machinery and structure alike.
Video caption: See one of our custom-built Controllable Pitch Propeller in action, crafted for precision, efficiency, and total control.
No two vessels are the same, and neither are our CPP systems. We collaborate closely with designers to create fully customized propulsion solutions that meet the unique demands of each project. Together, we design the setup that’s right for your vessel.
We tailor everything from propeller size and blade design to gearbox ratios and control system functionality, fine-tuning the entire setup to match your vessel’s performance goals.
Need a tailored solution? Let us know!
No two vessels are the same, and neither are our CPP systems. We collaborate closely with designers to create fully customized propulsion solutions that meet the unique demands of each project. Together, we design the setup that’s right for your vessel.
We tailor everything from propeller size and blade design to gearbox ratios and control system functionality, fine-tuning the entire setup to match your vessel’s performance goals.
Need a tailored solution? Let us know!
Controllable pitch propellers are engineered for vessels that demand precision, power, and performance – all in one adaptable system. Unlike fixed pitch solutions, CPPs enable continuous adjustment of blade angles to match real-time conditions at sea, offering a smarter way to manage propulsion.
With real-time pitch control, vessels benefit from smoother transitions, faster reversing power, and highly responsive handling. This level of control is essential for navigating tight harbors, performing dynamic positioning, or docking in challenging environments. CPPs minimize the need to change engine speed, giving captains finer control over thrust at all times.
By matching the propeller pitch to varying loads and speeds, CPP systems allow engines to operate closer to their optimal efficiency point. This means lower fuel consumption and better energy use.
Optimized load distribution and smoother transitions significantly reduce mechanical strain on engines and gearboxes. Berg Propulsion’s CPP systems are built to minimize wear, cut down on unplanned maintenance, and maximize up-time. This makes them a cost-effective investment over the vessel’s life-cycle.
With increasing regulatory pressure and rising fuel costs, controllable pitch propellers offer a clear advantage. CPP technology supports reduced emissions and better fuel economy, helping vessels meet environmental standards without sacrificing performance with smart features like feathering and Berg Propulsion’s automatic and adaptive fuel optimization systems Dynamic Drive and OpWind.
In today’s maritime industry, where efficiency, precision, and adaptability are more important than ever, Controllable Pitch Propellers play a crucial role. Their ability to instantly adjust thrust direction and output enhances maneuverability — a critical advantage in tight harbor operations, complex shipping lanes or for vessels operating in dynamic positioning mode.
Beyond performance, CPPs contribute significantly to operational sustainability. By allowing for optimal engine loading across varying speeds and conditions, CPP systems help reduce fuel consumption and lower emissions — supporting compliance with increasingly strict environmental regulations.
The integration of CPP technology aligns with the industry’s shift toward smarter, more energy-efficient solutions. As vessel operators look for ways to reduce costs and environmental impact without compromising performance, CPPs stand out as a forward-looking choice — driving the evolution of propulsion in modern shipping and enabling Berg Propulsion’s automatic and adaptive fuel optimization functions Dynamic Drive and OpWind.
CPP systems from Berg Propulsion are trusted on a wide range of vessel types.
For efficient cruising and responsive handling in ports.
Where maximum thrust and fast reversals are crucial.
For maximum efficiency, emission regulations compliance and passenger comfort.
Where comfort, silence, and low emissions are top priorities.
Controllable pitch propellers represent a crucial advancement in vessel propulsion, offering precise control and high adaptability across a wide range of operating conditions. By continuously adjusting the propeller pitch to match speed, load, and maneuvering requirements, CPP systems enhance engine efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and enhance overall vessel handling. This flexibility also helps minimize mechanical strain by maintaining optimal thrust at varying speeds without the need to change engine RPM, ensuring more efficient operations during course corrections, docking or fluctuating loading conditions.
A CPP system consists of several integrated components designed for durability and responsiveness:
Propeller hub: The propeller hub houses the mechanism that adjusts blade pitch during operation. Berg Propulsion’s CPP hubs use a circulating oil system, enhancing reliability and enabling continuous monitoring of moisture levels to prevent contamination and prolong service life.
Hydrodynamically optimized blades: The blades are engineered for low noise and high efficiency. Their design ensures consistent propulsion even under shifting operational loads, contributing to smoother and quieter performance with minimal vibration.
Hydraulic pitch control system: At the heart of the CPP system lies a precise hydraulic pitch control mechanism. It enables real-time pitch adjustments through regulated hydraulic pressure, allowing vessels to seamlessly adapt to changing speeds or thrust demands.
Berg Propulsion’s controllable pitch propeller system is compatible with both diesel-mechanical and diesel-electric configurations, and it’s designed for smooth integration with control systems like MPC800. Whether you’re running a cargo ship, tugboat, or offshore vessel, the adaptability of the CPP system ensures optimized performance across your entire operating envelope.
An important feature of modern CPP systems is feathering, where the blades are turned to a neutral angle to reduce drag when not in use. Feathering is particularly beneficial for twin screw vessels, as it enables efficient operation using only one propeller. Running on a single shaftline improves both hydrodynamic and engine efficiency, while also reducing wear and lowering maintenance demands. In addition, it allows maintenance to be carried out on the idle shaftline without disrupting the vessel’s operational schedule. Overall, feathering enhances efficiency and contributes to extended system longevity.
Video caption: Optimised vessel efficiency – vessels equipped with twin screws that lack the feathering functionality are unable to achieve efficient operation on a single propeller due to the significant losses in parasitic drag caused by the non-running propeller. All kinds of vessels can benefit from our feathering solution.
Unlike fixed pitch propellers (FPP), which operate at a single blade angle, CPP propellers continuously adjust to match propulsion demands. This flexibility boosts thrust, handling, and efficiency across the entire operating range. Fixed systems often struggle outside of their design point – particularly under varying sea states or when frequent maneuvering is required.
With CPP, you’re not locked into compromise. You get dynamic performance that adapts to real-world operations – whether you’re cruising at constant speed or maneuvering in high-traffic ports.
Vessels equipped with Berg Propulsion’s controllable pitch propeller systems consistently report: reduced fuel consumption, improved handling and safety, lower life-cycle maintenance costs and compliance with stricter environmental regulations. Read more in our customer success stories.
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Controllable pitch propellers are a key component in Berg Propulsion’s azimuth thrusters. In these systems, the propeller unit can rotate 360°, enabling thrust in any direction. By combining this maneuverability with the pitch control of a CPP, Berg Propulsion’s azimuth thrusters deliver precise handling and highly efficient propulsion in even the most demanding conditions.
This configuration allows operators to adjust both direction and thrust in real time, without changing engine speed. The result is smoother maneuvering, better fuel economy, and less mechanical strain. Berg Propulsion’s MTA (Marine Thruster Azimuth) series is available in Z- and L-drive configurations and is engineered for reliability, low noise, and ease of maintenance. Ideal for tugs, offshore vessels, ferries, and other ships that require responsive and flexible propulsion.
We are looking forward to hearing from you and discussing how we can be of assistance in making sure that your fleet is fully covered.
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At Berg Propulsion we are specialists in propulsion solutions, trusted for delivering reliable, efficient, and customized systems, supported by worldwide lifecycle support, keeping our customers moving forward with confidence.
Berg Propulsion AB
Andvägen 26
475 40 Hönö, Sweden
Berg Propulsion Production AB
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475 31 Öckerö, Sweden
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