DP rudder propeller for offshore wind

The SRP-D (‘Dynamic’) was developed using extensive computational fluid dynamics calculations to better meet the needs of the offshore wind industry.

“Based on the proven principle of the Schottel RudderPropeller, a cost-efficient yet powerful solution has been developed that greatly improves the positional accuracy of the vessel for the special DP requirements of these applications,” said Manfred Heer, vice president technology at Schottel.

“For customers, this means a significant increase in safety and possible operating times on offshore structures, especially in difficult weather conditions.”

The new SRP-D variants have reportedly reduced propeller acceleration/deceleration times. In combination with a high-speed azimuth steering system with reinforced gear components, the SRP-D enables faster thrust allocation than conventional rudder propellers, says Schottel.

These shorter response times means it is possible to react more quickly and in a more target matter to external factors such as wind, weather and currents, in turn reducing fuel consumption.

The SRP-D also has a low profile, vertically integrated LE-Drive plus an additional eight-degree tilt of the lower gearbox.

The integrated LE-Drive is ideally suited to a battery-powered motor but works with a range of motors. The SRP-D is also optionally available with drive train in Z-configuration.