Reintjes enters podded drive market

Targeted initially at the large yacht market, the drives are intended for power ranges between 500kW and 2,000kW, which the company says represents vessels of 15m to 36m length oa.

Fortjes consists of an upper reversing gearbox, a foundation plate and a non-steerable pod with two counter-rotating propellers, which, in conjunction with an asymmetrical shaft, are claimed to offer ideal flow conditions, particularly at the rudder blade, with reduced cavitation, increasing efficiency and reducing wear.

Employing a fixed-pod design, rather than steerable pods, is said to have a positive effect on sailing stability, enhancing manoeuvrability and comfort. The compact design of Fortjes is said to save both weight and space compared to a conventional fixed-propeller drive. For a 2,000kW system, Reintjes says that Fortjes needs 2m less installation space, which offers vessel designers and builders the opportunity to provide extra accommodation space.

Shipbuilders are said to benefit from faster and easier installation, as all components can be integrated into the ship’s hull within about 4 hours. The gearbox is sited in the engine room and, below the waterline, forms the basis for mounting the pod. After the foundation plate has been built into the hull, the gearbox and the pod can be interconnected. The system is intended for various types of hull form and is compatible with all normal marine engines. Either conventional steering gear and engine control or, optionally a joystick system, can be used, with all steering and control functions, including those for bow thrusters and stern thrusters, integrated in the control system.