Saturday, December 21, 2024

Thrusters and Pods News

(c) Damen, Kongsberg

Damen, Kongsberg Celebrate 1500 Thruster Deliveries

In a ceremony in Rauma, Finland, Damen Shipyards Group and Kongsberg Maritime have celebrated the delivery of the 1500th Kongsberg azimuth thruster to Damen, in a relationship spanning more than 40 years.This latest delivery continues the supply of azimuth thrusters for Damen’s wide range of tug designs, operating for its customers in ports across the world. Thruster number 1500 is one of a pair which will be installed on a Damen ASD Tug 2813, currently under construction at Damen Song Cam Shipyard in Vietnam.Speaking at the event…

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…

Schottel Propulsion for Four New Saltchuk Escort Tugs

Schottel won an order to supply azimuthing thrusters for four new escort tugs for Seattle-based Saltchuk Marine, the beginning of the renewal of the Saltchuk fleet for operations on the US West Coast, Hawaii, and Alaska.To be built by Eastern Shipbuilding, the vessels are a RApport 2600 design by Canadian naval architect Robert Allan and will measure 25.6 x 12.8m with a 5.5-m draft. Accommodation will be provided for eight persons, and they will be operated by Foss Maritime.Each tug will be equipped with two azimuthing Schottel RudderPropellers of the type SRP 510 each.

(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).

(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: Kongsberg Maritime

First Rim-Drive Thruster Achieves Silent-E Notation

Kongsberg Maritime’s rim-drive azimuth thruster has achieved Silent-E notation from DNV, the first of its kind to receive this certification.Installed on the new commissioning service operation vessel (CSOV) Norwind Hurricane and its sister vessels, the thruster demonstrated exceptional performance in reducing underwater noise pollution during a recent trial.To assess the noise levels of the Norwind Hurricane, an extensive underwater noise study was conducted using hydrophones placed on the seabed.

Source: Kongsberg Maritime

Kongsberg Maritime Adds to Rim Drive Azimuth Thruster Range

Kongsberg Maritime has launched a new Rim-drive Azimuth Thruster, the RD-AZ-2300.The RD-AZ-2300, with a propeller diameter of 2,300mm, sits between the existing RD-AZ-1900 and RD-AZ-2600 models and is suited for vessels operating in demanding environments such as offshore wind farms, where precise maneuverability and low noise levels are crucial.In adherence to DNV’s Silent R classification, the RD-AZ-2300 also provides significant advantages to underwater research vessels by reducing underwater radiated noise (URN) below sea levels, says Kongsberg Maritime.

(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…

(Photo: SCHOTTEL)

SCHOTTEL and Bota Technik Partner in Poland

German propulsion specialist SCHOTTEL and the Polish company Bota Technik have signed a cooperation agreement in the areas of after sales service and new sales with effect from January 1, 2025. On this date, Bota will take over the new sales business in Poland from SCHOTTEL’s long-standing agent P.H.U. Afra, while it is mutually expected that Bota's after sales service for SCHOTTEL products will start earlier. Bota Technik provides technical service and support for marine propulsion systems, from engines to gearboxes, shafts and propellers.

(Image: Kongsberg Maritime)

Kongsberg Debuts Underwater Mountable Thruster with PM Motor

Kongsberg Maritime has introduced a new size of underwater mountable azimuth thruster with a 3.7 meter propeller and 4.2-megawatt power output model joining the range. Suited to a range of vessels including drill ships, windfarm vessels and production vessels, the UUC PM 355 features a permanent magnet (PM) motor, delivering 81 tons of bollard pull.The UUC PM 355, has a compact design with less space required in the machine room thanks to the integrated PM motor. Other features include low noise operation…

(Photo: HamiltonJet)

HamiltonJet Breaks Ground on New Production Facility

Works began today on a new state-of-the-art production facility for capacity expansion for HamiltonJet, the New Zealand manufacturer of marine propulsion technology. This morning’s groundbreaking ceremony was held on site in Lunns Road, Christchurch.HamiltonJet has over 70 years of experience designing and manufacturing waterjet propulsion systems. It was founded in the 1950s by Sir William Hamilton - who pioneered the first commercial waterjet - and the company remains a market leader of waterjets and vessel controls.The new plant…

ULE PM 255 (Image: Kongsberg Maritime)

Kongsberg Unveils New Retractable Azimuth Thruster

Kongsberg Maritime has expanded its ULE PM retractable azimuth thruster range with the introduction of a new model, designed specifically for large vessels.The ULE PM thruster features an integrated electric prime mover positioned low between the steering gear, conserving over a meter of vertical space in the engineering compartment, the manufacturer said, noting the model is the most compact retractable unit available for any given power requirement, allowing for single-day installation.The latest addition…

(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…

(Image: HamiltonJet)

HamiltonJet Launches Data-technology Platform Overwatch

New Zealand-based HamiltonJet has unveiled its new  fleet monitoring solution, Overwatch, designed to provide shore-side staff with detailed multi-vessel information in real-time, delivering operational efficiencies and increasing levels of safety for crew and passengers.The platform has been four years in the making - two years development, working out how to harness the power of vessel digitization, and another two years in pre-deployment testing on customer vessels.HamiltonJet Managing Director, Ben Reed says, “We are very proud of this new evolution in HamiltonJet’s offering.

(Image: Marine Jet Power)

Marine Jet Power Unveils X-HT Waterjet

Sweden-based waterjet propulsion systems manufacturer Marine Jet Power (MJP) has unveiled its new X-HT waterjet.Designed for efficiency in low to medium speed applications (up to 35 knots), the X-HT particularly targets wind farm crew transfer vessels (CTV) but boasts wider applicability for various workboats, including passenger ferries, patrol boats and other utility vessels.“We are excited to expand our X-Series line with the High Thrust variant,” said Jonas Tegström, CEO of MJP.

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…

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…

Castoldi launched the latest in a new range of hydrodynamically optimized waterjets; the Turbodrive 400 HCT. Image courtesy Castoldi

Fit for Refit: Castoldi Launches 400HCT Turbodrive Waterjet

Castoldi launched the latest in a new range of hydrodynamically optimized waterjets; the Turbodrive 400 HCT.With a 400 mm jet housing, hydraulic gearbox/clutch and high thrust efficiency, the Turbodrive 400 HCT was designed using  Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software.The development of the new family of Castoldi HCT waterjets started 12 years ago and according to Giacomo Castoldi, owner at Castoldi S.r.l. “Thanks to the very latest developments in fluid dynamics, the new Turbodrive 400 HCT is around 12% more efficient than the outgoing model and is perfectly interchangeable with it.

Image courtesy Kongsberg Maritime

Kongsberg Thrusters for Six Tunisian PA Tugs

Kongsberg Maritime won a contract to supply azimuth thrusters to Turkish shipbuilder Med Marine, to power six new sterndrive tugs for the Tunisian port authority OMMP.The new tugs, of Robert Allan RAstar 2800 series design, are designed for a range of towing and harbor operations in Tunisian ports.Kongsberg Maritime will supply a pair of its US205 FP azimuth thrusters to each of the six 28-m vessels. The thrusters feature 2.8-m, fixed pitch propellers which will deliver efficient operation and enhanced maneuverability…

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…

Illustration by The Norwegian Ship Design Company

Brunvoll Propulsion Systems Chosen for Torghatten Nord’s Hydrogen Ferries

Brunvoll has been contracted to deliver the propulsion, maneuvering and autonomy systems for two hydrogen powered ferries for Torghatten Nord AS.The ferries will operate the harsh route to and from Lofoten in Norway, the Bodø-Verøy-Røst-Moskenes route. The hydrogen fuel cell ferries were designed by The Norwegian Ship Design Company AS. Both ferries included in the contract will be delivered from Myklebust Yard in 2026.The Brunvoll contract includes two azimuth propulsion thrusters, BruCon Propulsion & Thruster Control System, BruCon Auto-Crossing system and BruCon Condition Monitoring System.

(Image: SCHOTTEL)

SCHOTTEL RudderPropellers Selected for Four Damen ASD Tugs

SCHOTTEL said it will equip four new 1810-series ASD stock tugs from the Dutch Damen Group with the SCHOTTEL RudderPropeller type SRP 270. The new multipurpose tugs will have a bollard pull of 30 tonnes each and ensure excellent maneuverability with a compact size of just 18.25 meters in length and a beam of 10.23 meters.The power rating of the SRP 270 amounts to 1,000 kilowatts per unit, with a propeller diameter of 1.9 meters. Each tug will be equipped with two units. SCHOTTEL DuroVario LS slipping clutches will allow for smooth acceleration and improved handling of the thrusters.

(Image: Aker Arctic)

Steerprop to Supply Propulsion for Canadian Coast Guard MPVs

Steerprop announced it has been chosen to provide a Polar Class 4 (PC 4) propulsion package for the Canadian Coast Guard's Multi-Purpose Vessels (MPV) renewal program.The contract entails the supply of propulsion packages for the initial six MPVs, integral to Canada's National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS). Steerprop's solution comprises two tunnel thrusters for auxiliary propulsion and two Contra-Rotating Propulsors (CRP) for main propulsion, engineered to meet the operational…

(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…

(Image: Derecktor Shipyards)

Derecktor Building Hybrid Ferries for Chatham Area Transit

Derecktor Shipyards New York is building a pair of hybrid ferries for Savannah, Ga. based Chatham Area Transit (CAT). Delivery is expected in 2024.The two 65-foot-long, 50-passenger ferries will be equipped with an electric propulsion package from BAE Systems, including permanent magnet traction motors and HybriGen Power system. Each vessel will feature a 308 kWh energy storage system (ESS) from Xalt Energy and a pair of Marine Jet Power (MJP) Ultrajet 305 waterjets.The ferries are being built to operate on short…

Roland Schwandt (Photo: SCHOTTEL)

SCHOTTEL Names Roland Schwandt Deputy CEO

SCHOTTEL GmbH announced it has appointed Roland Schwandt as Deputy CEO with effect from January 1, 2024.Schwandt joined SCHOTTEL in 2000 as a graduate naval architect, starting his career as a project and sales manager  in various SCHOTTEL sales segments. After briefly managing the Tug & Offshore Energy segment, in 2018 he was entrusted with the responsibility for the global sales activities of SCHOTTEL GmbH and its now 14 subsidiaries as Vice President Sales.Alongside his role at SCHOTTEL…

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-…

(Image: Seaspan Shipyards)

Seaspan Shipyards Orders ABB Propulsion for Canadian Polar Icebreaker

Canadian shipbuilder Seaspan Shipyards has awarded ABB a contract to deliver an integrated propulsion system for the first of the Canadian Coast Guard’s (CCG) new-generation polar class icebreakers.The first vessel of its kind to be built in Canada in over 60 years, the vessel is expected to be one of the world’s largest and most powerful diesel-electric icebreaker when it enters service in 2030, complying with IACS Polar Class 2 requirements for year-round operations in moderate multi-year ice conditions.

(Image: ABB)

ABB Azipod DI Propulsion System Gets ABS Approval

The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has granted approval in principle (AIP) to ABB for its Azipod DI with a capacity of up to 4.5 MW and ice class PC3.ABB called the approval "a significant milestone", as the Azipod DI propulsion system is now ready to power future icebreakers in the North American market as demand for icebreakers on the rise."Our long-standing and fruitful cooperation between ABB and ABS has been instrumental in developing cutting-edge propulsion systems for icebreaking ships.

(Image: Antarctica21)

ABB to Power First South American Built Hybrid-electric Polar Expedition Cruise Ship

ABB has been selected by the Astilleros y Servicios Navales S.A. (ASENAV) shipyard based in Chile to provide a power and propulsion system for Antarctica21’s newbuild boutique expedition ship Magellan Discoverer. Due for delivery in 2026, the vessel is the first hybrid-electric polar cruise ship featuring Azipod propulsion to be built in the Americas. Accommodating up to 96 passengers and 67 crew members, the vessel will be operating in the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia and…

Superyacht Liva° from the Abeking & Rasmussen shipyard (Image: Voith)

Superyacht Liva° Breaks Records

Spanning more than 118 meters long, Liva°, delivered in August, is the largest superyacht to date built by the Abeking & Rasmussen shipbuilder in Lemwerder, Germany, near Bremen. However, its length is by no means the only record-breaking feature that the shipyard offers in the superyacht segment. The sleek black hull is a visual highlight that draws the observer’s gaze to focus entirely on the elegant silhouette. All technical necessities are accommodated in a way that makes…

(Image: Marine Jet Power)

Marine Jet Power to Supply Waterjets for New Fireboat in Korea

Marine Jet Power (MJP) announced it has been selected to supply its 850 DRB waterjets for a new fireboat being built for South Korea's Incheon Metropolitan City.The 36.2-meter fireboat, set to become the flagship vessel at the littoral of Incheon, will be built at Asian Shipbuilding in Korea for scheduled delivery in January 2025.It will be equipped with dual MJP 850 DRB waterjets. MJP will also provide a dynamic positioning system to enhance station-keeping capabilities during firefighting operations.MJP’s JetMaster 3 control system will govern the helm…

(Image: Northern Offshore Services)

N-O-S First to Adopt Volvo Penta's New IPS Professional Platform

Volvo Penta announced Northern Offshore Services (N-O-S) will be the first to deploy its new IPS Professional Platform, lining up installs on newbuild crew transfer vessels (CTV) slated to set sail in the second half of 2024.Volvo Penta's newly launched propulsion offering, an evolution of its proven Inboard Performance System (IPS) solution, is designed with a dual power input concept that enables the utilization of different combinations of power sources from combustion engines running on renewable fuels to fully electric or hybrid solutions.

(Image: Volvo Penta)

Volvo Penta Unveils Its IPS Professional Platform

Volvo Penta has unveiled IPS Professional Platform, its new propulsion offering for superyachts and commercial marine vessels, slated for commercial availability from 2025.Volvo Penta said the new fully integrated helm-to-propeller solution builds on its proven Inboard Performance System (IPS) and Electronic Vessel Control (EVC) technology with enhancements for larger vessels.The flexible platform enables a vessel to have up to eight power sources, and includes matched software, services and support, all integrated via the company’s proprietary EVC technology.

The Croatian ferry Krk operated by the national Jadrolinija shipping company was retrofitted to cater for a new route with stronger winds and currents. (Photo: Jadrolinija)

Croatian Ferry Refit for Operations on New Route

Sometimes, a change in a vessel's operational profile requires considerable modernization or retrofitting of its propulsion system in order for the vessel to remain fit for purpose. And in some cases, newly required thruster performance features can be achieved with the help of modifications that preserve most of the existing units.Earlier this year, the Croatian ferry Krk operated by the national Jadrolinija shipping company, was retrofitted to cater for a new route with stronger winds and currents.

Image courtesy Berg/Erik Thun Group

Berg Propulsion for Erik Thun Newbuilds

Erik Thun Group selected Berg Propulsion’s Dynamic Drive technology to optimize efficiency on board all 10 of its latest newbuildings. The Swedish owner confirmed its decision after pilot installations exceeded energy efficiency gain expectations, with the integrated drive solution helping to save 10% of fuel, rising to 20% in some operational conditions.As part of Erik Thun’s rolling fleet renewal strategy, the owner recently expanded its newbuild program with Dutch yard Shipsveerf Ferus Smit B.V to include four 5…

Finnish Boarder Guard Multi-Purpose Vessel. Image courtesy Steerprop

Steerprop to Help Outfit Finnish Border Guard Ship

Steerprop won a contract with Meyer Turku shipyard to supply tunnel thrusters and retractable combi thrusters for two newbuild multi-purpose patrol vessels for the Finnish Border Guard.The Finnish Border Guard will replace three obsolete patrol vessels with two new offshore patrol vessels, similar in size to the Turva (Finnish for “protection” or “security”), the largest patrol vessel in the fleet to date. “Our new patrol vessels are multi-purpose vessels that have the capacity…

Source: HamiltonJet

HamiltonJet Launches HJ215 Waterjet

New Zealand-based HamiltonJet has launched its HJ215 waterjet, an ideal propulsion solution for a wide range of boats, says the company.It is compact and lightweight and it is built for greater efficiency at high speeds, making it an excellent waterjet for thrill-seeking tourist crafts, search and rescue vessels and other marine sectors.The new factory-made TURBO II impeller option offers superior performance where acceleration and high thrust in aerated water are important. The…

Source: Steerprop

Steerprop To Supply Bow Thrusters for Canada’s New Polar Icebreaker

Steerprop has been chosen to supply advanced ice-classed bow thrusters to the Canadian Coast Guard’s new Polar Icebreaker. The ship will be designed and built by Seaspan Shipyards as part of Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy.Steerprop will equip the Polar Icebreaker with two arctic tunnel thrusters specially designed to meet the most demanding ice conditions, even without the protection of tunnel grids. This will be Steerprop’s first delivery of this unique ice-strengthened tunnel thruster.

(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.

The new thruster model range AT 90 from ZF can be adapted to a wide range of professional vessel types - tugs, ferries, large jack-up vessels, research vessels and many more. (Image: ZF)

ZF Unveils New Azimuth Thrusters

ZF announced the expansion of its azimuth thruster (AT) lineup with the new AT 90, compatible with a wide range of commercial vessels such as tugs and ferries, supporting max power of 1,978 kW / 2,651hp.The well-mounted, Z-Drive thruster is one of the most flexible on the market, fully customizable to nearly any hull shape or vessel profile. It also supports auto-trolling. The combination with ThrusterCommand ensures precise and efficient propulsion control.As is true of all thrusters in the AT series…

(Photo: Carnival Corporation)

Carnival Signs 15-year Service Deal with ABB

ABB announced it has secured a 15-year agreement covering service for Carnival Corporation brand vessels powered by Azipod XO electric propulsion systems.The deal aims to simplify service management of Azipod XO propulsion units, with ABB experts remotely available 24/7 to support the vessels’ electric engineering crew on maintenance, based on ABB Ability Remote Diagnostic System and ABB Ability Condition Monitoring for Azipod propulsion. The owner accumulates data about Azipod propulsion performance…

© Roland Magnusson / Adobe Stock

ABB Flags Q4 Slowdown and China Challenges

ABB flagged a slowdown in revenue growth in the fourth quarter and reported a continued decline in orders in China, sending its shares lower even as the Swiss engineering group posted third-quarter earnings broadly in line with forecasts.The maker of industrial drives and motors noted some signs of stabilisation in China, its second-largest market and said higher quarterly revenues and earnings were boosted by price increases outstripping cost inflation, and higher volumes.But…

Schottel Building New Logistics Center in Dörth, Germany

Maritime propulsion specialist Schottel said Tuesday it is expanding its thruster factory in Dörth, Germany, to include a logistics center with a capacity of around 4,000 square meters.A contract for the expansion has now been signed with general contractor Goldbeck from Koblenz.The new building will be annexed to the existing facility and will provide 2,634 square meters of industrial floor space and 1,326 square meters of offices. The groundbreaking ceremony for the 7.5-million-euro structure is to take place at the end of this year…

Credit: Praxis Automation/AdobeStock

Praxis Automation to Equip 59 RVOS Offshore Vessels with DP-2 Systems

Praxis Automation, a company specializing in ship automation, electrical propulsion, and dynamic positioning systems, will outfit 59 vessels of Saudi-based Rawabi Vallianz Offshore Services's (RVOS) with Praxis DP-2 systems.Under this RVOS fleet-wide contract, new build and existing offshore support vessels will be equipped with Praxis dynamic positioning systems, as well as customised equipment and software for digitization of the fleet in phases agreed with RVOS, one of the…

Ecopeller courtesy of Schottel

Schottel EcoPeller Meets Yachting Sector Demand for Thruster Efficiency

Owners, naval architects and shipyards are increasingly turning to environmentally friendly propulsion technologies for yachts. They heavily focus on thruster efficiency and thruster usability in conjunction with diesel-electric ship concepts. Schottel says its EcoPeller (SRE) meets these requirements.It can be ordered with power ratings up to 5,400kW per thruster and is currently being delivered for several newbuild yachts. With lengths of up to 100 meters, the super- and giga-yachts are being equipped with SREs ranging from power ratings of 560kW up to 1…

Illustration of the polar research Icebreaker. Image credit: Guangzhou Shipyard International Company Limited.

ABB to Supply Ice-Classed Azipod Propulsion for Research Vessel

ABB has received an order from the Guangzhou Shipyard International to supply an Azipod® DI propulsion system for the new compact icebreaker of China’s Institute of Deep-sea Science and Engineering. The ship is expected to be delivered in 2025, after which it will begin to carry out operations in the Arctic and Antarctic Ocean.A complete electric propulsion system including two 4.5MW Azipod® units will drive the vessel through harsh weather and thick first-year ice to enable research on behalf of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

Photo courtesy MJP

MJP to Supply Waterjets for Taiwan's Tuo Chiang-class Corvettes

Waterjet propulsion systems manufacturer Marine Jet Power (MJP), along with its authorized representative in Taiwan UDC Marine, announced the continuation of a partnership with Lungteh Shipyard to produce more Tuo Chiang-class Corvette for Coastal Defense.The Tuo Chiang-class corvettes have a length of 60.4 meters, displacement of 685 tons, a range of 1,800 nautical miles, and a maximum speed of 43 knots. To date, four ships have been completed and the additional orders will begin production this fall.Featuring quad MJP 850 CSU waterjets…

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.

 Illustration: HAV Design AS

Brunvoll to Deliver Propulsion System of New Green Fuel SOV

Danish offshore vessel owner ESVAGT and Norwegian ship designer HAV Design have selected Brunvoll as the supplier of a propulsion and maneuvering system for another Service Operations Vessel (SOV). The delivery will be a repeat of the contracted vessel from last year, known as "The world's first green fuel SOV". Both vessels are built by Cemre Shipyard and will enter into a 10-year charter for Ørsted at their UK East Coast Hub.The delivery from Brunvoll consists of a complete propulsion and maneuvering system…

(Image: Kongsberg Maritime)

Kongsberg Maritime Boosts US Waterjet Manufacturing

Kongsberg Maritime announced it has established a dedicated manufacturing facility and service team to provide in-country support for its waterjet customers in the United States.Kongsberg Maritime has been manufacturing Kamewa waterjets for over 40 years, delivering more than 10,000 units globally. The company will now offer a step-change in support for its North American customers, including local manufacturing of waterjets, local service support and spare parts, from its facility in New Orleans.John Huschilt…

(Image: HamiltonJet)

HamiltonJet Debuts New Range of Waterjets

HamiltonJet has unveiled a new range of high-efficiency waterjets, starting with the LTX36 model. Optimized for medium- and low-speed operation, New Zealand-based manufacturer said it has produced the first waterjet to rival the energy efficiency and bollard pull of the best propeller-based systems between zero and 30 knots.Waterjets are among the most efficient propulsion options for going fast due to the absence of hull-appendages and their highly optimized pump geometry, but HamiltonJet CEO Ben Reed noted not everyone wants to go fast.“Our customers’ needs are changing…

©Kongsberg Maritime

Singapore's Penguin Shipyard Selects Kongsberg Kamewa Waterjets for Fast Ferries Bound for the Middle East

Norway's Kongsberg Maritime has secured a contract to supply its Kamewa waterjets for two fast ferries to be built by Singapore's Penguin Shipyard for a Middle East client. Each of the new 56-meter Ropax ferries will be equipped with four Kongsberg Kamewa 71 S-4 waterjets and control systems.Designed by Incat Crowther UK, the ferries will have a capacity of 250 passengers and 25 cars. The 71 S-4s are from the Kongsberg Kamewa Steel series of waterjets, with a maximum power of…

A Canadian Armed Forces Photo - Image via GE

GE Vernova's SeaJet Podded Propulsion Systems: Enhanced Efficiency and Maneuverability in Harsh Sea Ice Conditions

GE Vernova’s Power Conversion is showcasing at CANSEC in Canada its SeaJet range of podded propulsion systems, which, the company says, brings efficiency and maneuverability to operate in harsh sea ice conditions. Power Conversion is now launching SeaJet power range from 1.5 MW to 4 MW, using low voltage (<1000 V) ideal for smaller ships. "With high steering capability, SeaJet provides very good transit and bollard pull performance. Powered by proven technology, including Power Conversion’s SeaPulse low voltage DC drive system and a high torque-density Advanced Permanent Magnet Motor (APMM)…

(Image Volvo Penta)

Volvo Penta Unveils New IPS Professional Platform

Volvo Penta has unveiled its new Inboard Performance System (IPS) professional platform, the next evolution in its fully integrated helm-to-propeller offering. Building upon the existing Volvo Penta IPS range, the new, larger and versatile platform is designed as a powerful and flexible solution for professional vessels and superyachts from 25 to 55+ meters with top speed from 12-40 knots, the manufacturer said.“Our passion, experience and history of proven results with Volvo…

File photo: U.S. Navy Independence class littoral combat ship USS Gabrielle Giffords (LCS-10). (Photo: Josiah J. Kunkle / U.S. Navy)

US Navy Orders LCS Propulsion Items

Defense Maritime Solutions, Inc. secured a contract from the U.S. Navy's Southwest Regional Maintenance Center in San Diego in support of the waterjets and seals that they originally supplied for the Littoral Combat Ship Independence Class.The $9,135,942 firm-fixed price indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract includes four ordering year options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to $60,582,873. Work will be performed globally and defined in each delivery order. The completion of the base year is expected to be twelve months after award.

Spanish Navy amphibious assault ship Juan Carlos I (Photo: ABB)

Spanish Warship Set for Propulsion Refit

ABB said it has secured a contract with the Spanish state-owned Navantia shipbuilding company to retrofit the Spanish Navy flagship Juan Carlos I with an electrical propulsion system based on dual ABB Azipod units. Due completion in 2025, the project is the first of its kind on a naval ship.The contract follows a study undertaken by ABB in 2020 to determine the feasibility of installing new propulsors on the ship. The study identified ABB Azipod as a solution to meet the vessel’s requirements for reliability…

(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…

Finnish Border Guard multi-purpose patrol vessel (Image: Meyer Turku Oy)

ABB to Power Finland's Two New Patrol Vessels

ABB announced it has secured a contract with Finnish shipbuilder Meyer Turku to supply an integrated power and propulsion package comprising two Azipod propulsion units and the Onboard DC Grid power system for two new, advanced multi-purpose patrol vessels of the Finnish Border Guard.Due for delivery in 2025 and 2026, the 98-meter ships will replace the outgoing Tursas and Uisko patrol vessels. Alongside the existing Turva, they will guard Finland’s borders, performing maritime rescue operations and helping mitigate environmental impacts.

(Image: ABB)

ABB to Supply Azipods for Four Fincantieri-built Cruise Ships

ABB has secured a contract with shipbuilder Fincantieri to deliver in total eight mid-range Azipod propulsion systems for four forthcoming medium-sized cruise vessels. The ships are due for delivery in 2024, 2025, 2026 and in 2027.The passenger ships will be equipped with two 7.7-megawatt Azipod propulsion units per vessel.With the electric drive motor housed within a pod outside the ship hull, the Azipod system can rotate 360 degrees, increasing maneuverability and allowing vessels to dock in harbors where turning circles are restricted.

(Image: HamiltonJet)

HamiltonJet Unveils HTX47 Waterjet

HamiltonJet said its new HTX47 waterjet has improved upon its previous jet model to offer a more seamless installation experience. Its new compact inboard footprint design and fully integrated hydraulics system ensures faster installation in the vessel.HTX47 new hydrodynamic design delivers 4% more high-speed efficiency, a 16% increase in peak bollard pull, and offers better operation at minimum speed, according to the manufacturer. It also features enhanced corrosion protection for more durability and expanded impeller rating range for greater compatibility for a wider range of engines.

SRP-D with a propeller shaft with an eight-degree tilt. Image courtesy Schottel

Marine Propulsion: Inside Schottel's New SRP-D

The increased performance of the fast-responsive Schottel RudderPropeller Dynamic SRP-D was confirmed by external sources. Initial investigations into the effect of thruster response on DP positioning were carried out in cooperation with MARIN, based in the Netherlands, and Polish ship designer MMC. The results obtained demonstrated much-improved position accuracy and enhanced operability of the vessel.Further calculations made by DNV and simulations from a cooperation with VARD showed that the SRP-D greatly improves the vessel’s operational performance and environmental impact…

The new SDO-SuRS (Special and Diving Operations - Submarine Rescue Ship) to be built by the Italian shipyard T.Mariotti for the Italian navy. Image courtesy Kongsber/T. Mariotti

Kongsberg Kit for Italy's Submarine Rescue Ship

Kongsberg Maritime will provide a suite of equipment to a newbuild ship dubbed SDO-SuRS (Special and Diving Operations - Submarine Rescue Ship) to be built by the Italian shipyard T.Mariotti for Marina Militare Italiana (The Italian Navy).Central to this order are a pair of Kongsberg Elegance propulsion pods, direct electric permanent magnet motor driven pods matched with a Kongsberg electric power system, including batteries and power management system.According to Kongsberg…

The three Schottel RudderPropellers type 510 L FP inside the Germany Wismar production site. Photo courtesy Schottel

THSD Frederick Paup to Sport Schottel RudderPropellers

The largest U.S.-flagged, self propelled trailing suction hopper dredger (THSD) Frederick Paup will be propelled by a trio of Schottel RudderPropellers manufactured at the German Wismar production site. Scheduled to enter operation in 2023, the dredger will be owned and operated by Manson Construction Co., and is currently under construction at the Keppel AmFELS Shipyard in Brownsville, Texas. It will be 128 m in length, have a 25 m breadth and about 9 m draught and will have a hopper volume of 11,500 cu.

©Kongsberg Maritime

Small but Powerful: Kongsberg Maritime Launches New Retractable Azimuth Thrusters

The Norwegian maritime equipment and technology company Kongsberg Maritime has launched a new series of retractable azimuth thrusters.Kongsberg said that the units, of the ULE PM type, are smaller than competing units but maintain thrust power.Kongsberg Maritime said that because of their compact size, the new thrusters could be used on modern offshore wind, fishing, and naval vessels with limited space on board."The ULE PM type thruster has an integrated electric prime mover mounted very low between the steering gear.

(Photo: SCHOTTEL)

SCHOTTEL After Sales Service Network Expands

German propulsion systems manufacturer SCHOTTEL announced it has added new contractual service partners in Spain and France. The company currently has more than 100 sales and service stations around the globe.Stefan Buch, VP After Sales Service at SCHOTTEL, said, “Today, more than 10,000 vessels of all types and sizes are sailing around the globe thanks to SCHOTTEL propulsion systems. To ensure reliable operation at all times, we offer a wide range of services throughout the vessel’s lifecycle.

(Image: ZF Marine)

ZF Marine Debuts 4600 POD Propulsion System

Marine driveline specialist ZF announced it will premier its new 4600 POD Propulsion System for large vessels for the first time in North American markets during this week’s Fort Lauderdale Boat Show (FLIBS).Engineered for large recreational and commercial vessels with planing and semi-displacement hulls measuring from 80 up to 130 feet, the 4600 POD Propulsion system first set sail in the Grande 26M motor yacht by Azimut last fall, but has been unavailable outside of European markets until now.