Sharrow Marine’s new Model MX-1 propeller is set to revolutionize the boating sector.
By Gregg Mansfield
Choosing a new propeller often forces boaters to compromise. A propeller designed for better midrange performance might sacrifice top speed or significantly impact the holeshot.
A “loop propeller” from Sharrow Propellers has the potential to transform how boaters perceive one of their vessel’s most essential components. Based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the company claims that the Model MX-1 propeller significantly enhances performance while reducing noise and vibration.
The concept originated from Greg Sharrow, president and CEO of Sharrow Engineering, who dedicated seven years to the design, testing, and development of this patented technology. Sharrow initially aimed to create a propeller for drones intended for the entertainment industry, not the marine sector.
Greg Sharrow, president and CEO of Sharrow Engineering
Previously a producer and director in the video production field, Sharrow was chairing the audio-visual department at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia when he committed to promoting his propeller to broader audiences.
“The inspiration for the Sharrow Propeller came while directing a classical music show,” he noted. “I was developing an ultra-quiet drone for the entertainment industry, and I realized its potential applications for government operations where sound is a crucial concern.”
As the design progressed, Sharrow realized it was suitable for applications beyond drones. The Model MX-1 was initially intended for large vessels like freighters and tankers but has been adapted for outboard engines between 100 and 450 horsepower.
“Testing our hypothesis on those motors proved that these work exceptionally well for outboard props,” he explained. “We then fine-tuned some designs specifically for these use cases.”
When you unpack the Sharrow Propeller, it deviates significantly from conventional propeller designs. Instead of blade tips, it features three loops connecting to a hub. Each loop has two attachment points to the hub, offering much more surface area, effectively functioning like a six-blade propeller using just three blades.
Sharrow stated that in tests, the Model MX-1 boasts 9 to 15 percent greater efficiency than standard propeller designs. At cruising speeds, the propeller demonstrated 18 percent improved efficiency, leading to reduced fuel consumption. Other advantages include lower rpm for planing and increased top speeds.
According to Sharrow, boats equipped with this propeller enjoy enhanced turning precision and overall maneuverability, particularly in docking scenarios. The reduction in vibration and noise translates to decreased wear and tear on both engines and vessels, he added.
“These benefits, combined with the efficiency improvements, make this a transformative technology for the entire recreational boating market, especially for the high-end boater keen to be an early adopter,” Sharrow remarked. “This offers them an advantage that is unavailable elsewhere.”
The Model MX-1 propeller is constructed from a proprietary alloy, but Sharrow did not disclose further details. “Our blades will be stronger than what they are replacing,” he assured.
The Model MX-1 propeller series is crafted from a solid block or piece of billet utilizing CNC technology, meaning there are no surplus props resting on shelves in Philadelphia. The company has manufacturing partnerships both domestically and internationally.
Sharrow emphasized that the propellers are produced to standards exceeding ten times the industry benchmark for precision. “We manufacture these props as orders come in,” he explained, starting the production process upon receiving an order.
When customers inquire about purchasing a propeller, Sharrow stated that the company’s engineers assess their priorities, such as top speed, midrange efficiency, holeshot, or vibration concerns.
“We take all this into consideration for sizing the Sharrow propeller for them, ensuring excellent customer service tailored to their specific needs,” he added. “What you are receiving is a premium, high-end product, which has previously been unavailable to the boating community.”
Crafting a single Model MX-1 propeller may take up to a couple of weeks, unlike traditional propellers which are mass-produced by pouring metal into molds. For instance, a Sharrow Propeller ordered in late January is anticipated to ship by May or June, as stated by the company.
The CNC-machined Model MX-1A three-blade aluminum version retails for $4,500, while the CNC-machined stainless steel Model MX-1S starts at $9,000.
The company provides a 30-day satisfaction guarantee and will replace it with a new pitch propeller or issue a full refund. The Model MX-1 is protected by a one-year warranty against manufacturing defects and includes 12 months of the Sharrow Care Protection Plan, which covers replacements in case of damage during normal use. An optional plan is available that extends coverage for an additional 36 months.
Sharrow acknowledges that some potential customers may hesitate to embrace new propeller technologies after witnessing nearly a century of stagnant design innovation. While it’s true that modern propellers surpass those produced merely years ago thanks to CAD advancements and better materials, their fundamental design remains largely unchanged.
“Companies typically face obstacles when introducing new technologies to the market,” he remarked. “In our case, we are confronted with the opposite challenge: the demand for our product far exceeds our manufacturing capacity. When I’m at the dock swapping out my prop, people notice it from afar, approach me, and ask about it, exclaiming, ‘I’ve never seen that before, and I’ve been boating my entire life.’”
Sharrow founded the company in 2012, but it wasn’t until last year that the Model MX-1 was officially unveiled due to the lengthy patent process. He mentioned that there are over 45 patents filed for the propeller.
“They say overnight successes take five years to materialize,” Sharrow quipped. “I suppose we’ve been at it for seven years.”
Contact Information
Sharrow Marine: www.sharrowmarine.com