Becker Flap Rudder

The Becker Flap Rudder is a high-lift rudder with an articulated, moveable flap that amplifies the rudder angle – a rudder angle of 45° gives a flap angle of 90°. It generates significant lateral force at small rudder angles, making it well suited to ships operating in narrow or restricted waterways, smaller ports and rivers. The flap linkage and hinge system has been refined over decades for reliability.

Key features

• 10–20% increase in manoeuvring forces; equivalent lift with a smaller rudder area
• Flap angle up to 100°; up to 65° rudder angle for crabbing
• Superior low-speed manoeuvrability, smaller turning circles and improved course stability
• Improved dynamic positioning and course keeping; reduced need for tug assistance
• Balance adjustment improves propeller disk coverage and reduces rudder torque

Configurations

• Standard profile – high-lift rudder with vertical leading edge, often on medium-sized vessels
• Twisted leading edge – reduces cavitation erosion risk and improves efficiency
• Closed Linkage (Heracles) – protects the flap mechanism from ice, sand and floating objects; flap angle up to 100° at 45° rudder angle
• King Support (FKSR) – neck bearing integrated in the blade for rudders over 20 m², allowing slimmer profiles
• Heel pintle – for fishing boats, offshore ships, workboats and tugs; also acts as a rope guard
• Rudder bulb – reduces the propeller hub vortex to improve propulsive efficiency

Applications

• Container vessels and tankers
• Ferries, vehicle carriers and passenger vessels
• Offshore vessels and workboats
• Fishing vessels