Schottel wins LNG propulsion deal
The vessels, each with a cargo capacity of 20,000 cbm, are under construction at Jiangnan Shipyard in China and are scheduled for delivery in April 2027.
Designed for ship-to-ship LNG bunkering operations alongside large commercial vessels, the ships require highly precise manoeuvrability and operational reliability, particularly in difficult weather conditions. Each vessel will therefore be fitted with two Schottel SRP 460 LE rudder propellers.
The propulsion units will feature Schottel’s LE-Drive configuration, which incorporates a vertically integrated electric drive motor. By removing the need for an upper gearbox, the design improves mechanical efficiency while reducing fuel consumption, vibration and onboard noise levels. The compact installation height of the system also enables more efficient vessel integration.
The propulsion package will additionally include Schottel ProAnode corrosion protection technology, developed to optimise hydrodynamic flow characteristics. The system is intended to reduce energy consumption, lower operating costs and extend maintenance intervals.
Both vessels will also be equipped with Schottel’s MariHub digital monitoring platform. The IoT-based system collects and analyses operational data from onboard machinery and sensors, enabling condition-based maintenance and supporting higher levels of operational reliability.
The vessels will support fuel supply infrastructure for international shipping as the industry continues its broader decarbonisation efforts.
