Sunday, December 22, 2024

Propellers News

Alba vessel (Credit: MAURIC)

France's First Hydrogen-Electric Powered Fishing Training Vessel Ready to Set Sail

The LPMA: Maritime and Aquaculture Professional School of Bastia will on November 15, 2024, inaugurate France's first hydrogen-electric powered fishing training vessel, dubbed Alba, which was designed by a MAURIC-led consortium.Alba vessel has been specifically designed to include fishing training capabilities such as longline and seine techniques.The vessel can accommodate up to 12 students and 2 instructors (crew).With an overall length of 19.95 meters, the maximum length allowed by the LPMA specifications…

Two Waterways Commerce Cutter variants - an Inland Construction Tender (top) and River Buoy Tender (bottom) (Credit: Birdon America)

Schottel Bags Components Order for 27 US Coast Guard Vessels

Schottel has been selected by Birdon America to supply components to 27 vessels of the U.S. Coast Guard Waterways Commerce Cutter (WCC) program.For this program, U.S. Coast Guard prime contractor Birdon America is designing the cutters and is expected to construct 16 River Buoy Tenders (WLR) and 11 Inland Construction Tenders (WLIC).The cutters will be built at Birdon’s recently acquired Bayou La Batre shipyard in Alabama. Up to four cutters are expected to be delivered annually over the course of the next eight years…

(Credit: Kongsberg Maritime)

Kongsberg Maritime to Equip 10-Strong Fleet of Capital Offshore’s PSVs

Kongsberg Maritime has secured $73.3 million contract from Fujian Mawei Shipbuilding in China to supply range of equipment for a new fleet of 10 platform supply vessels (PSVs) being built for Greek shipowner Capital Offshore.Under the contract, Kongsberg Maritime will supply all propulsion, automation, and energy systems for the 95-metre vessels of MMC 897 CD design.The Kongsberg Maritime electrical system on these vessels will enable optimal operation through the Energy Storage System (ESS).

Source: CHEK Project

Study Highlights Need to Reconsider Fixed Sea-Margin for Gate Rudder Concept

A study published by Norbert Bulten, Product Performance Manager at Wärtsilä, has demonstrated that “there is more in life than the straight-sailing, calm water condition.”The research was carried out within the EU-funded CHEK project and involved full-scale CFD simulations that focused on the impact of rudder steering and vessel motion.The study compared a gate rudder concept to a conventional semi-spade rudder for a Kamsarmax bulker.Typically, a rudder is placed behind the propeller, where the movable part can be a part (semi-spade) or the complete rudder section (full-spade).

(Credit: Fjord1)

Schottel to Propel World’s First Autonomous Electric Ferries

A series of four zero-emission and autonomous ferries, to be built by Turkish Tersan shipyard for Norwegian ferry operator Fjord1, will be propelled by Schottel’s EcoPellers.The double-ended vessels will be the first of their kind in the world, with Norwegian HAV Design tasked to deliver the ship design and an engineering package.Two electrically driven Schottel EcoPellers type SRE 340 will be installed in each of the 120 meter long and 18.60-meter-wide vessels.The L-Drive variant or “embedded L-Drive” significantly reduces the installation height of the thrusters…

Source: Becker Marine Systems

Becker Marine Systems Introduces New Wind-Assist Steering Technology

Becker Marine Systems introduced two new products at SMM which are designed to optimise vessel hydrodynamic performance: the Becker Daggerboard and the Becker Steering Gear.The Becker Daggerboard is an anti-leeway fin designed for ships equipped with modern wind- assisted propulsion systems (WAPS). When using WAPS, the desired thrust ahead components drive the ship. Depending on the wind direction, there can also be stronger or weaker lateral force components leading to leeway from the desired course.

(Credit: LMG Marin)

Brunvoll to Supply Propulsion System for Norled’s Four New Ferries

Brunvoll has been chosen to supply azimuth propulsion thrusters and thruster control systems for Norled’s four next hybrid ferries.The vessels will service the routes between Stokkvågen, Lovund, and Træna in Norway. Designed by LMG Marin, the vessels will be built at the Tersan Havyard Shipyard.Norwegian ferry operator Norled has won the contract for the routes based on a 90% reduction in emissions.Each ferry will have a battery capacity of 8000 kWh, and therefore the largest battery capacity compared to other ferries in Norway.The routes support traffic between Stokkvågen and Lovund…

(Credit: Tärntan)

Konsberg to Equip Hybrid Chemical Tanker for Danish Operator

Kongsberg Maritime has secured a contract to design and a equip a 10th hybrid chemical tanker for Danish operator Tärntank.The new Tärntank vessels will reduce carbon emissions using a combination of clean technologies.The wind-assist technology will be installed on the latest four vessels ordered, and this feature alone is expected to reduce emissions by up to 19%. The new vessels will have an Energy Efficiency Design Index close to 40% below the 2025 Phase 3 requirements.The 15…

© Airbus / Louis Dreyfus Armateurs / Norsepower

Berg to Supply Propulsion Kit for LDA's Wind-Assisted Airbus RoRos

Berg Propulsion has won a contract to deliver the hybrid propulsion solution for three wind-assisted Louis Dreyfus Armateurs (LDA) Ro-Ro vessels.Following delivery by China’s Wuchang Shipbuilding from 2026 onwards, the innovative vessels will carry Airbus A320 Family jetliner subassemblies from France to the final assembly line in the United States.The ships have been designed by Deltamarin with the aim of halving fuel burn and CO2 emissions in transatlantic operations by 2030…

(Credit: Stirling Design International)

Wärtsilä Set to Deliver Emissions-Cutting Tech for CMA CGM Ferries

Technology group Wärtsilä has secured a deal to supply engines, fuel gas supply system and thrusters for two new Ropax ferries being built for French operator La Méridionale, a subsidiary of CMA CGM.The vessels, which have been specifically designed to minimize emissions, are to be built at the China Merchants Jinling Shipyard (Weihai), and will operate between Marseille and Corsica.For each ship, Wärtsilä will supply two 12-cylinder, one 10-cylinder and one 8-cylinder Wärtsilä 31DF engines.The two ferries will benefit from Wärtsilä’s NextDF technology…

(Credit: MOL)

MOL to Install Wind Powered Propulsion Systems on Seven New Vessels

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) and its company MOL Drybulk have announced plans to install wind propulsion systems, including Wind Challenger, on a total of seven newbuilding bulk carriers and multi-purpose vessels.The vessels will be operated by MOL Drybulk. With the latest commitment, MOL Group will have a total of nine Wind Challenger-equipped vessels, bringing the total number of vessels equipped with wind propulsion systems to 11.Among the seven vessels to be equipped with wind propulsion systems…

The five-bladed controllable pitch propeller on the Maunalei showing a fracture (inset) at the base of the no. 4 blade. (Source: U.S. Coast Guard)

Flawed Propeller Blade Caused Containership to Lose of Propulsion -NTSB

A containership transiting the Pacific Ocean lost hydraulic oil and propulsion after its propeller blade cracked, according to a report from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). A blade on the vessel’s controllable pitch propeller system did not meet manufacturer design specifications, the investigation found.The Matson containership Maunalei was travelling to Portland, Ore., from Anchorage, Alaska on August 11, 2022, for drydock repairs when the crew intentionally shut down the main engine due to problems in the controllable pitch propeller system…

Holy Boss Cap undergoing  trials.
Image courtesy EcoMarine Innovations

Efficiency Gains from Eliminating the Hub Vortex

There is hydrodynamic solution that delivers multiple benefits for ship owners facing increasingly tough regulatory requirements and rising operational costs, writes Dr. Batuhan Aktas*One area of ship operations that has attracted much attention in recent years due to the possibilities it represents for emissions reduction is that of cavitation. During ship operations, cavitation occurs because of vortices that build up and cause bubbles to collapse under the ship’s propeller. The results of this process include increased noise, vibration and energy usage.

Underwater illustration of REM’s new ESCV (Credit: Skipsteknisk)

Brunvoll to Equip REM Offshore's Next-Gen Subsea Construction Vessel

Brunvoll has signed a contract with Myklebust Verft shipyard for the delivery of a thruster package to REM Offshore’s new energy subsea construction vessel (ESCV).The contract is for one vessel with an additional vessel as an option.Brunvoll will deliver a thruster package consisting of two propulsion azimuth thrusters, two retractable azimuth thrusters, and a tunnel thruster.One of the retractable azimuth thrusters is a newly developed and more compact version of Brunvoll’s traditional azimuth combi thrusters…

Stena’s  Ro-Pax vessel Ala’suinu - Credit: © Stena RoRo

Stena’s Ro-Pax Vessel with Wärtsilä Propellers Obtains DNV Silent Operations Notation

Stena’s new Ro-Pax vessel, Ala’suinu, equipped with Wärtsilä propellers has received DNV’s Silent(E) notation, issued to vessels that demonstrate the ability to effectively reduce emissions of underwater radiated noise.Technology group Wärtsilä has designed and delivered controllable pitch propellers for Stena’s new Ro-Pax vessel, Ala’suinu, which has successfully completed sea trials.Following these sea trials, Ala’suinu became the first Ro-Pax vessel to fulfil the DNV Silent(E) notation…

Illustration for Cyan Renewables new SOV (Credit: Vard Design)

Brunvoll System to Propel Cyan Renewables New SOV

Brunvoll has signed a contract with Vard for the delivery of a comprehensive propulsion and maneuvering system for Cyan Renewables' new Service Operation Vessel (SOV).The vessel will have the first azimuth propulsion thrusters from Brunvoll with an 8-degree tilted propeller and nozzle, for enhanced performance during dynamic positioning operations.The delivery for the new SOV consists of two azimuth propulsion thrusters, two retractable azimuth thrusters, a tunnel thruster, and…

Image courtesy SCHOTTEL

Guangzhou Port Group’s e-tug to Sport Schottel Propulsion

SCHOTTEL will equip Guangzhou Port Group’s latest e-tug with two RudderPropellers type SRP 360 in the LE-Drive variant. The new harbor tug measures 37.9 x 10.5m and will be mainly used for berthing assistance, escorting and towing in the Port of Guangzhou, China. Each SRP has an input power of 1,500 kW and a propeller diameter of 2.2m. The 360-degree steerable thruster combines maximum maneuverability and bollard pull with outstanding efficiency during free sailing, providing…

Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) frigate (Credit: Damen)

Damen Naval to Equip ASW Frigates with Kongsberg’s Propellers

Damen Naval has selected Kongsberg Maritime Sweden to deliver controllable pitch propellers and shaft lines for the four Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) frigates for the Netherlands and Belgium.As part of this contract, Kongsberg will supply four shipsets of its controllable pitch propeller systems and associated equipment including blades, hubcaps, hubs, and shaft lines.The four ASW frigates will replace the current Karel Doorman-class multi-purpose frigates. They will be deployed for a wide variety of tasks, with anti-submarine warfare as their main purpose.

(Credit: Wärtsilä)

Wärtsilä Launches New High-Performance Thruster and Propulsion Control Solution

Wärtsilä has introduced a new high-performance thruster and propulsion control solution, which is said to raise the level of offshore dynamic positioning for greater efficiency and operational performance of vessels.The company’s new high-performance thruster and propulsion control solution package utilizes a combination of Wärtsilä’s WST-E embedded electric steerable thruster and WST-R retractable thrusters, together with an updated remote propulsion control system featuring an enhanced user interface ProTouch…

Mark Brattman (Source ITIC)

ITIC Highlights Importance of Vessel Design Reviews Following $5 Million Claim

The International Transport Intermediaries Club (ITIC) has highlighted the importance of robust vessel design reviews and related insurance coverage throughout the construction process following a recent dispute between a naval architect, a shipowner and a shipyard regarding a vessel’s operational performance post-delivery.The vessel, a 24-metre catamaran servicing the offshore oil and gas industry, faced considerable operational limitations. This was attributed to unexpected vibration issues in the vessel's rudders…

Source: Pacific Basin

Pacific Basin Chooses Graphene-Based Propeller Coating

Dry bulk shipping company Pacific Basin has decided to apply a sustainable graphene-based propeller coating XGIT-PROP, developed by Canadian company GIT Coatings, across its entire fleet.Following successful application and observing positive results on one of its Supramax dry bulk vessels, Pacific Basin has started the rollout of XGIT-PROP across 40 vessels scheduled for dry dock maintenance in 2024. This decarbonisation initiative marks the largest adoption of graphene-based propeller coating in the dry bulk segment.Sanjay Relan…

Ground breaking ceremony for new logistics center (Credit: Schottel)

Schottel Breaks Ground for Rudder Propeller Factory Expansion in Germany

Schottel has marked the symbolic start of construction for the expansion of its rudder propeller factory in Dörth, with the construction already advancing towards the planned commissioning in 2025.Schottel is expanding its rudder propeller factory by adding a logistics center measuring around 4,000 m2.As the official ground-breaking ceremony was delayed, it has now taken place symbolically against the backdrop of the shell construction that has already begun.The total investment volume amounts to €9.5 million…

The SCHOTTEL RudderPropeller  (Image: SCHOTTEL)

SCHOTTEL to Equip Med Marine's Six New ASD Tugs

SCHOTTEL is to equip six new ASD tugs of the Turkish Med Marine Group with the SCHOTTEL RudderPropeller (SRP). The new vessels will be built by Med Marine’s Ereğli Shipyard and will be available in 2025 to meet the constantly growing demand for Med Marine tugs. A total of 12 SCHOTTEL RudderPropellers in the SRP 360, SRP 430 and SRP 490 series will be built for the new vessels by the German manufacturer of marine propulsion systems. The new tugs will cater for a range of different bollard pull requirements in the 50-…

(Photo: SCHOTTEL)

New Hybrid-drive Tug is First on South America’s West Coast

The PSA Wayra ASD tug will soon enter service for PSA Marine Peru, a wholly owned subsidiary of PSA Marine (Pte) Ltd, as the first tug with a hybrid drive system on South America’s west coast. Hong Kong-based Cheoy Lee Shipyards has built the PSA Wayra on the RAmparts 2400W design from Robert Allan Ltd. The tug is propelled by SCHOTTEL RudderPropellers featuring patented SYDRIVE-M technology. This mechanical hybrid solution without the costly complexity of common hybrid technology reduces both the vessel’s maintenance costs and its fuel consumption.

Credit: SCHOTTEL

SCHOTTEL to Propel Windcat Offshore's Latest Walk-to-Work CSOVs

The first three new Walk-to-Work Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOVs) built by the Dutch Damen Group for Windcat Offshore will be powered by full propulsion packages from SCHOTTEL. With vessel sizes of 87 metres by 20 metres, each CSOV will come with high-comfort accommodation for 120 passengers, and will provide a large warehouse and deck as well as various recreational areas and a hospital. The vessels will be powered by hydrogen and use a DP-2 control system. The…

© nordroden / Adobe Stock

Partners Aim to Produce 3D-printed Propeller

ABS is joining Mencast Marine (MMPL), the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), and the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Cluster (NAMIC) on a project to manufacture and class a 3D-printed propeller.The collaborative project builds upon a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by ABS and MMPL that is focused on additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, for critical maritime components.The new initiative has an objective to 3D-print a ship propeller using Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) techniques with a goal to achieve high-quality…

Source: Kongsberg Maritime courtesy of Moby

Moby Selects Kongsberg Maritime for Ro-Ro Propulsion Upgrade

Kongsberg Maritime has won a contract to upgrade the propulsion systems on five ro-ro passenger ferries for Italian operator Moby. The vessel upgrades will together reduce CO2 emissions by more than 30,000 tons per year.Moby operates a fleet of ro-ro passenger ferries, operating in the western Mediterranean, including routes between the Italian mainland, Sicily, and Sardinia.Three of the ships, the Moby Vinci, the Sharden, and the Moby Aki, will all receive a Promas Lite propulsion system, which combines rudder and propeller into one propulsion unit.

Austral Fisheries new longline vessel built by Båtbygg AS. Design and illustration by Marin Teknikk AS.

Brunvoll Propulsion Solution Chosen for Antarctic Longline Fishing Vessel

Båtbygg AS has placed an order with Brunvoll for a complete propulsion and maneuvering solution for Austral Fisheries new longline fishing vessel. The vessel is designed by Marin Teknikk AS for operation in the Antarctic Ocean, surrounded by some of the world’s harshest weather conditions.The new vessel named Austral Odyssey will have a length of 70 meters and a breadth of 14.6 meters.The propulsion and maneuvering solutions chosen for this vessel consists of a shaft line propeller with a 2-speed gearbox with power take-off (PTO) and power take-in (PTI).

AEGIR-Marine and UPE Conduct Major Stern Tube and Propeller Repair Job

When on route to the Gulf of Mexico area, a fully laden bulker hit a buoy off the coast of Colombia damaging the propeller blades and aft seal assembly. A close detailed inspection revealed a missing rope guard, the entire seal box being distorted and dislocated from the stern tube and all five propelled blades damaged.Trained and certified UPE-dive technicians were mobilized, together with special habitat and relevant equipment, from AEGIR-Marine’s Panama branch.A complete new split type seal assembly was ordered and transferred, from stock, to location.

SCHOTTEL to Propel Orca Class Heavy-lift Vessels

The new Orca Class heavy-lift vessels being built at China's Wuhu Shipyard for the Jumbo-SAL-Alliance will be propelled by SCHOTTEL ControllablePropellers (SCP).The four-bladed controllable pitch propellers type SCP 129 will feature an input power of up to 8,810 kW and a propeller diameter of six meters.Jumbo-SAL-Alliance is a commercial joint venture between German shipping company SAL Heavy Lift and Netherlands-based Jumbo Shipping. Their new Orca Class, which includes four firm and two optional vessels…

Source: Erik Thun Group

Erik Thun Unveils New Lake Vanern MAX Bulk Carrier Series

Sweden’s Erik Thun Group has unveiled its next generation battery-hybrid, dry cargo vessel series being built at Shipyard Ferus Smit in the Netherlands.The Lake Vanern Max is hybrid, with a battery pack for peak shaving and power smoothening, reducing the reliance on auxiliary engines for electricity generation. The vessel is designed to stay at anchor without using auxiliary engines. Shore connection enables clean and silent port operations and allows the vessel to shut down all engines onboard…

(Photo: Propspeed)

Propspeed Receives Type Approval from Bureau Veritas

New Zealand-based Propspeed's underwater foul-release coating system has received type approval from Bureau Veritas following significant third-party testing.Marine materials and equipment certification is the review and testing process that ensures ships’ component parts conform to the technical standards established by regulatory bodies. Bureau Veritas provides certification services for shipyards, suppliers and manufacturers, helping keep ship materials and equipment reliable for shipowners.

Credit: Vard

Brunvoll's Propulsion and Manoeuvring Packages for Purus Wind's CSOVs

Norwegian firm Brunvoll has secured a contract to deliver propulsion and manoeuvring packages for Purus Wind's two new Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOV).Each vessel will be outfitted with two azimuth thrusters for propulsion, and two retractable azimuth thrusters and a tunnel thruster for manoeuvring The scope of supply features also Brunvoll's Propulsion and Thruster Control system, Brucon PTC."The offshore wind market will be an important segment for Brunvoll in…

Two vessels owned by global energy company Vitol had tailored Wärtsilä EnergoFlow and EnergoProFin systems installed during summer 2022 © Wärtsilä Corporation

Wärtsilä Supplies Energy Saving Propulsion Devices to Vitol Tankers

Wärtsilä has delivered propulsion efficiency devices to two tankers owned by Vitol.The vessels, Elandra Sea and Elandra Star, managed by Latvian operator LSC Group, had tailored Wärtsilä EnergoFlow and EnergoProFin systems installed during summer 2022.EnergoFlow is a pre-swirl stator that creates an optimal inflow for the propeller, reducing fuel consumption and emissions in all operating conditions. The EnergoProFin is an energy saving propeller cap with fins that rotate together with the propeller.

Credit: Schottel

Schottel to Provide Full Propulsion Packages for Edda Wind's New CSOVs

Marine propulsion specialist Schottel will equip four Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOVs) being built by the Norwegian VARD Group with full propulsion packages.The package per vessel consists of two SCHOTTEL Dynamic RudderPropellers type SRP 460 D, one SCHOTTEL Retractable RudderPropeller type SRP 380 R, and two SCHOTTEL TransverseThrusters type STT 5. The vessels are being built for Norwegian offshore wind vessel owner Edda Wind.“Being part of the Edda Wind fleet fills us with great pride,” says SCHOTTEL CEO Stefan Kaul.

Credit: Esvagt

Confirmed: HAV to Design and Equip ESVAGT's New Methanol-Fuelled Offshore Wind Vessel

Norway's HAV Group has signed the final contract to design and equip another methanol-fuelled offshore wind service operation vessel (SOV) for the Danish offshore vessel owner ESVAGT.HAV Group said Monday it had signed the final contract with ESVAGT’s chosen shipyard, Cemre Shipyard in TurkeyHAV Group will deliver both the ship design and an integrated equipment package, including the propulsion system, engines, propellers, and positioning system. The total contract value for HAV is around approximately NOK 200 million (currently around $20 million).

Source: Neoline

Berg Feathering Propeller System Chosen for Wind Assisted Neoliner

An integrated control to propeller solution from Berg Propulsion has been selected to ensure that the Neoliner ro-ro vessel will always achieve optimized performance, whether it is powered by wind alone or with the assistance of gensets.In January, French company Neoline Armateur contracted Türkiye’s RMK Marine to build the first ever ro-ro vessel to use wind power for commercial operations at its Tuzla yard. Designed by Mauric, the 136m length Neoliner will be a pioneer of energy transition in shipping…

 The project will create and validate a digital model of the ‘TBC Prestige’, based on measured real-life data © Transworld Group

Wärtsilä Helping with Decarbonization of Orient Express' Bulk Carriers

Finland-based marine technology group Wärtsilä will partner with Transworld Group to apply what it says are the most advanced decarbonization modeling capabilities to the bulk carriers sector of Orient Express lines of Dubai.Orient Exrpress is owned by Transworld Group and Managed by Transworld Ship Management (TWSM), one of India's premium private sector ship management firms. The project aims to provide decision-making support by simulating the impact of efficiency upgrade technologies on the vessel’s environmental performance.

(Photo: Hundested Propeller)

Hundested Propeller Acquires Ocean Marine Systems

Hundested Propeller announced it has acquired Ocean Marine Systems Ltd (OMS) and with immediate effect welcomes the U.K. organization as a subsidiary.For over 100 years, Hundested Propeller has been a manufacturer of marine equipment and today it supplies complete controllable pitch propulsion systems, marine gearboxes, thrusters and sail drive solutions. The purchase of OMS will increase its thruster range, and OMS will continue its range of hydraulic cylinders and through-hull instrument deployment systems used in underwater security and seabed mapping applications.The former owners of OMS…

The hydrodynamically optimized design allows the thruster to produce maximum steering forces and enables top values in terms of overall efficiency and course keeping ability, Schottel says ©Schottel

Schottel's Largest EcoPeller Shipped

Propulsion systems manufacturer Schottel said Thursday that the largest Schottel EcoPeller ever manufactured was recently shipped from the Wismar production facility in Germany. The five-bladed SRE 700 features a propeller diameter of 3,600 mm and an input power of 3.2 MW. "Thanks to its compact design, the integrated LE-Drive (“embedded L-Drive”) allows more freedom in vessel design," Schottel said."In addition to this, it offers extremely low vibration and noise levels. The thruster’s controllable pitch propeller enables efficiency increases by means of pitch adjustment.

©Kongsberg Maritime

Kongsberg Maritime to Supply Propulsion Systems for Six Philippine Navy Vessels

Norway's Kongsberg Maritime has won an order for six sets of controllable pitch propeller systems from South Korea's Hyundai Heavy Industries for installation in six new 94-meter offshore patrol vessels for the Philippine Navy.Each propulsion set will consist of twin Kongsberg Kamewa Controllable Pitch Propeller (CPP) 86 A/5 D-B systems, as well as shaft lines, hydraulic power units, local operating panels, and accessories. The first shipset will be delivered in August 2024.The six new offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) are part of a major upgrade to Philippine naval capacity.

© Oscar Propulsion/YoutTube Screenshot

New System Reduces Underwater Radiated Noise from Ship Propellers

Oscar Propulsion Limited and the University of Strathclyde have come up with a way to reduce underwater radiated noise from ship propellers.According to Oscar Propulsion, its patented PressurePores system reduces propeller tip vortex cavitation by applying a small number of strategically placed holes in the propeller blades. The addition of these pressure-relieving holes allows ships to operate with a more silent propeller.Lars Eikeland, Marine Director, Oscar Propulsion, said…

©Kongsberg Maritime

Kongsberg Maritime Launches DTS System for Rudders

Kongsberg Maritime has launched the Direct Trunk Support (DTS) system for rudders. According to the company, the new system transfers the manoeuvring forces from the rudder through the headbox and the steering gear deck directly into the hull structure, promising improved manoeuvring, propulsion performance and weight savings that can ultimately save fuel and help cut emissions.The DTS rudder has no upper size limit and works for vessels of any size, from container ships to fishing vessels…

Credit: Schottel

Schottel to Propel Four China-built Wind Turbine Installation Vessels

Schottel azimuth thrusters will propel four newly built wind turbine installation vessels (WTIVs) for Ouyang Offshore in Shanghai.The first vessel will be delivered in the fourth quarter of 2022, and these vessels will be able to install giant 16 MW wind turbines.To ensure DP mode maneuverability and precise positioning, each vessel will be outfitted with two electrically driven Schottel Rudder Propeller type 430 azimuth thrusters and two Schottel Transverse Thrusters type STT 4."For 70 years…

Van Oord offshore wind installation Jack Up vessel. Image credit: Van Oord

Chinese Yard Orders ABB Propulsion System for Giant Offshore Wind Installation Vessel

China's Yantai CIMC Raffles Shipyard has ordered an integrated power, automation, and propulsion system from ABB for a newbuild offshore wind installation jack-up vessel (JUV) being built for the Dutch marine contractor Van Oord.The vessel, Boreas, is due for delivery to the owner in the second part of 2024, and it is said that it will be one of the largest and most technologically advanced hybridized units of the type in operation, measuring 175 meters in length. It will be able to lift over 3…

Credit: Schottel

Schottel Launches DP-optimized Rudder Propeller for Offshore Wind Vessels

German propulsion specialist Schottel has launched a DP-optimized rudder propeller for the offshore wind market.The company said that the rudder propeller has been developed to meet the growing requirements for W2W vessels to operate efficiently and reliably. "The SRP-D (“Dynamic”) is a further improved variant for highly demanding DP operations in service operation vessels. When developing the SRP-D, extensive CFD simulations and calculations were taken into account," Schottel said.Manfred Heer…

(Photo: Hapag-Lloyd)

Hapag-Lloyd Begins Major Green Fleet Upgrade Program

German container shipping group Hapag-Lloyd announced it has begun a comprehensive five-year fleet upgrade program to improve the energy efficiency of ifs containership fleet. The program will require an investment "in the three-digit million range", Hapag-Lloyd said.The company said at least 86 of its ships will be equipped with new and more efficient propellers. The first to be upgraded, the 7,500 TEU Ningbo Express, will receive a new propeller optimized for energy efficiency by the German manufacturer MMG, to be installed in Dubai in September.

(Photo: Schottel)

SCHOTTEL RudderPropellers to Power World’s First Hydrogen Tug

The first hydrogen-powered tug worldwide is equipped with SCHOTTEL propulsion systems. The vessel, which will be among the cleanest of the fleet of the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, has recently been launched by the Spanish shipyard Astilleros Armon and will enter operations at the Belgian port in early 2023.Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO at Port of Antwerp-Bruges, said, “With the Hydrotug, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges is making an important step in the transition to a sustainable, CO2-neutral port.

Steerprop's Propulsion Package for Maersk's First Offshore Wind Installation Vessel

Steerprop, a designer and manufacturer of high-performance propulsion systems, has won a major order to supply the complete propulsion package for Maersk Supply Service's recently ordered Wind Installation Vessel (WIV). Singapore-based Sembcorp Marine Ltd, which has secured a contract for the construction of the vessel for Maersk Supply Service, ordered the propulsion package from Steerprop.Steerprop's scope includes six ducted L-drive azimuth propulsors with an output power of 4500 kW and two 900 kW Steerprop Tunnel Thrusters for dynamic positioning…

Schottel Controllable Propeller. Image courtesy Schottel

EALs Approved for Use in Schottel Controllable Propellers

Schottel has approved Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants (EALs) for the use in its ControllablePropeller (SCP) units. Following an extensive testing period in the in-house test benches, oils that were able to meet the OEM’s high performance and quality requirements were technically approved for the use in CP hubs. The EALs are not only able to fully replace the mineral oils used so far, but offer a further advantage with their biodegradability. As a result, they ensure to not harm the environment in the long term.

Image courtesy Aker Arctic/Kongsberg Maritime

Kongsberg to Deliver CPP Systems for Four Finnish Navy Corvettes

Kongsberg Maritime signed a contract with Aker Arctic that will see KM supply propellers and shafts for four newbuild SQ2020 corvette ships for the Finnish Navy.The process originated in September 2019 when the Finnish Defense Forces Logistics Command (FDFLOGCOM) contracted Aker Arctic to design and deliver full shaftline system to SQ2020 corvettes and the Rauma Marine Constructions (RMC) yard in Finland to build the vessels. Kongsberg Maritime’s delivery will consist of CPP controllable pitch propellers and shafts for the four vessels: each corvette will be equipped with two propellers…

Credit: HAV

Brunvoll Propulsion for Esvagt's 'Green' SOV

Norwegian ship propulsion specialist Brunvoll will supply azimuth propulsion and maneuvering system for Esvagt's green fuel SOV, to be built in Turkey.The vessel, a HAV Design 833 SOV, will be built at Cemre Shipyard. The Danish vessel owner Esvagt has said that the vessel will be "the world’s first service operation vessel that can operate on green fuels."Brunvoll's delivery will be propulsion azimuth thrusters, retractable azimuth thrusters, tunnel thruster and BruCon condition…

Credit: Steerprop

Steeprop to Ferry Owners: Focus on TCO Instead of kW-power to Optimize Costs

Companies planning a new ferry build should focus on the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) instead of kW-power, in order to optimize costs, Steeprop, a designer and manufacturer of azimuth propulsion systems, said.Choosing the propulsion unit based mainly on Capex, for example, will most likely increase costs in the long run, adding that a ferry owner can save more than two million euros over a 15-year period by concentrating on the TCO."The traditional way of handling the procurement of propulsion systems…

(Photo: Kongsberg Maritime)

Kongsberg Rolls Out CPX Propeller Lineup

Kongsberg Maritime (KM) announced it is dividing its propeller systems into three distinct categories, C-Line, P-Line, and X-Line.The ‘C’ in C-Line stands for ‘Configured’, and indicates that these propellers are configured within a pre-defined technical spectrum to suit customers whose priorities are short lead times and a strong performance-to-cost ratio, the manufacturer said. Numerous options are available within the C-Line propeller solution to fine-tune the offering further, presented in a lucid and straightforward manner which simplifies the decision process for customers.

Credit: Kongsberg

Kongsberg's Propulsion and Control System for Scandlines' Zero-emission Ferry

Norway's Kongsberg Maritime said Friday it would supply a complete propulsion and control system package for a forthcoming Scandlines zero-emissions ferry which, when built, is destined to be the world’s largest all-electric double-ended ferry. The ferry has been designed by LMG Marin AS in Norway and will be constructed at Cemre Shipyard in Turkey, in cooperation with Scandline’s vessel-newbuild experts. The freight ferry is expected to enter service in 2024. The new 147.4 meters…

Credit: Wärtsilä

Stena RoRo's Ro-Pax Vessel Trio to Sport Broad Range of Wärtsilä Solutions

Finland-based marine technology and equipment specialist Wärtsilä will provide a broad scope of its solutions for three new LNG-fuelled Ro-Pax vessels being built in China for Swedish ferry operator Stena RoRo.China Merchants Jinling (Weihai) Shipyard is building the vessels. They will operate with Wärtsilä engines and propulsion machinery when delivered in 2024 and 2025. The vessels, each around 200 meters long, are part of a series of E-Flexer class ferries ordered by Stena RoRo for European line service.

A vessel being built for Van Oord at Yantai CIMC Raffles shipyard will be powered by five Wärtsilä 32 engines. Credit:  Van Oord

Wärtsilä to Supply Methanol-fueled Engines for Van Oord's Offshore Wind Installation Vessel

Five Wärtsilä 32 engines capable of operating with methanol will power a new Offshore Wind Installation Vessel (WIV) being built for Dutch contracting company Van Oord at Yantai CIMC Raffles shipyard in China, in what is the first such order for the Finland-based marine engine and equipment maker.Dutch marine and offshore services company Van Oord in October 2021 ordered the jack-up for offshore wind turbine installation. The vessel will be able to install next-generation wind turbines of up to 20MW.

Henrik Hamann Juel (Photo: Hundested Propeller)

Hundested Propeller Names New CEO

Hundested Propeller A/S announced it has appointed Henrik Hamann Juel as CEO with immediate effect.Hamann Juel brings a wealth of experience from his prior work within the manufacturing of marine generators, aquaculture and wind energy. His roles have included CEO, COO, factory manager in both medium-sized businesses and large international corporations.“I am looking forward to working with the team here at Hundested Propeller,” Hamann Juel said. “Towards the end of 2021 the company underwent a strategic restructure to further meet the needs of our customers…

(Image: HydroComp)

HydroComp Updates PropElements 2021

Development in 2021 for HydroComp PropElements offers new features across the range of applications, including improved wake-adapted propeller design and analysis.PropElements + FINE/Marine couplingUser testing is underway for the new coupling of HydroComp PropElements with NUMECA’s FINE/Marine CFD software. One of the challenges of full self-propulsion analysis with CFD is the computational load required to model the propeller within the 3D space. When coupled with FINE/Marine as a higher-order actuator disk replacement…

Photo courtesy Crowley/Schottel

Crowley eWolf Electric Tugboat to Feature Schottel Propulsion

Crowley’s new 25-m eWolf, the first all-electric tug to be built and operated in the U.S., will be equipped with Schottel systems, including a pair of RudderPropellers type SRP 430 featuring the LE-Drive (Embedded L-Drive) and MariHub, the data IoT Gateway and monitoring solution.Designed by Crowley Engineering Services  and to be built at Master Boat Builders shipyard in Coden, Alabama, the innovative workboat is scheduled to enter operations by mid-2023. When it enters service…

Photo courtesy Propspeed

Marine Coatings: Propspeed Targets Commercial Sector for Growth

Propspeed launched a new kit packaged specifically for the commercial marine trade professional. Rusty Morgan, VP of Sales & Operations, Americas, discusses with Maritime Reporter TV.New Zealand-based Propspeed, a maker of underwater foul-release coatings for 21 years, recently signaled its intention to enter full-force into the commercial maritime space with the launch of its first coatings kit packaged specifically for the commercial marine trade professional. The Propspeed Commercial Kit includes all that is needed to coat two propellers 165-203cm in size…

A BAE Systems Type 26 Frigate, HMS Glasgow, under construction. The Type 26 Frigate is the reference ship design for the Hunter Class Frigates.

BAE Systems Orders Propeller Blade from VEEM for Hunter Class Frigates

Australia-based VEEM, a company designing and building marine propulsion and stabilization systems, will manufacture a pilot propeller blade for the Hunter Class Frigate Program (HCFP), under a contract awarded by BAE Systems Maritime Australia."The order enables VEEM to demonstrate it has the manufacturing capability to join the HCFP supply chain. As a world leader in premium commercial propellers that has delivered similar blades to defense clients globally, VEEM is very confident it can meet the requirements of the HCFP…

Schottel EcoPellers were chosen for China's first ice-breaking beacon vessel. Image courtesy Schottel

Chinese Icebreaker Beacon Ship Sports Schottel EcoPellers

Schottel supplied main and auxiliary propulsion units for China’s first ice-breaking beacon vessel. Haixun 156, which will perform a wide range of tasks, has recently been launched by the contracted shipyard Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group, Hubei Province, China. It was ordered by the Tianjin Maritime Safety Administration (MSA) and is scheduled to enter operation in September 2021.The main propulsion of the beacon vessel includes of a pair of diesel-driven Schottel EcoPellers type SRE 460 (1,800 kW each) featuring a four-bladed 2.4 m-diameter propeller.

Nakashima Propeller production. © Nakashima Propeller

Nakashima Propeller Takes Majority Stake in Becker Marine Systems

Japan's Nakashima Propeller Co. has taken a majority stake in the German shipbuilding supplier Becker Marine Systems GmbH.“We have gotten to know Nakashima Propeller as a much respected and reliable partner through decades of cooperation,” said Dirk Lehmann and Henning Kuhlmann, the two managing directors at Becker Marine Systems, “and because we are expert suppliers in the area in front of and behind the propeller with well-known products such as the Becker Mewis Duct and the Becker Rudder family…

Hydrex diver taking the plunge in icy conditions in Finland. (Photo: Hydrex)

Underwater Propeller Repairs in Winter Conditions in Europe

In just over a week Hydrex diver/technicians traveled to Finland, Germany, the Netherlands and France to assist shipowners with damaged propeller blades. On two bulkers the blades were cropped while on a third bulker and a general cargo vessel the bent blades could be straightened.In all cases the best solution was offered to the customer to restore the propeller’s efficiency as close to the original condition as possible.One of the propeller blades of a 180-meter bulker was severely bent. A fast, on-site solution to restore the propeller’s balance and efficiency was needed.

(Photo: Gondan)

First Ever Electric Voith Schneider Propellers Ready to Be Installed

Spanish shipbuilder Gondan said it received last week at its main facilities in Castropol, Asturias, the first two electric Voith Schneider Propellers (eVSP) ever manufactured. They will be soon installed in the new offshore wind service operation vessel (SOV), being built for Norwegian shipping company Østensjø Rederi A/S.The first eVSP passed the factory acceptance test (FAT) several weeks ago at Voith facilities in Germany. Gondan will be the first shipyard in the world to…

Credit; Schottel

Canadian Car Ferry to Feature Schottel Propulsion

German propulsion maker Schottel has been awarded a contract to deliver main propulsion units for one car ferry of the Canadian company Western Pacific Maritime.The newly built vessel ordered by the British Columbia Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure will be equipped with four high-efficiency Schottel TwinPropellers (STP). The main propulsion consists of four Schottel TwinPropeller units type STP 150 L (360 kW each), driven by PEM motors. Featuring a propeller diameter of 1.1 meters, the STPs enable a speed of up to 13.5 knots.

(Image: Naval Group)

Bureau Veritas Certifies 3D Printed Propeller

Bureau Veritas (BV) said it has certified a new-generation 3D printed propeller manufactured by Naval Group for a Tripartite-class minehunter vessel.“This technology is promising and opens the room for further, more complex, innovations in additive manufacturing,” Laurent Leblanc, Senior Vice President Technical & Operations at Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore.With its 2.5-meter span supported by five 200-kg blades, the propeller is said to be the largest metal 3D-printed propeller ever manufactured.