Improved coatings for Schottel thrusters

The underwater elements of the propulsion unit are coated with several layers of extremely hard, two-component epoxy resin. Compared with a conventional standard coating, this gives over twice the abrasion resistance and around 60% greater adhesion. For the above-water sections, Schottel uses a dense and durable two-component polyurethane coating.

Blasting booths at the company’s new plant near its headquarters in Germany form the basis for substrate preparation of the entire Rudderpropeller. The coatings now used by Schottel meet the requirements of the highest corrosion protection class C5-M.

The innovation has less environmental impact too – both during production and with regard to the vessel itself – as the paints contain considerably lower quantities of volatile organic compounds and solvents. The coatings are also harmless to aquatic organisms and inhibit the adhesion of marine organisms, contributing to improved durability and efficiency.

An optional, self-polishing, antifouling final coat can be applied and the new coating systems can be combined with paints of older generations as well as with most two-component epoxy and polyurethane coatings.