Schottel RudderPropellers for four new tugs

One of the 32 metre long and 11.6 metre wide escort tugs will feature the Schottel SYDRIVE-M technology from the start whilst the other three will be configured to be SYDRIVE-ready.

“By making use of Schottel’s hybrid solution, we are taking the initiative to increasingly seek a clean operation,” said Carlos Eduardo Pereira, chief executive at Starnav Serviços Marítimos.

“Starting now is particularly important – the vessels that are built today will be in the water for decades to come. With 34 vessels propelled by Schottel in our fleet, we will continue expanding our operations and benefit from a strong partner with extensive know-how in Brazil,” he added.

The main propulsion of each ASD tug consists of two diesel-driven Schottel RudderPropellers type SRP 490 (2,525 kW each) featuring fixed-pitch propellers with a diameter of 2.8 metres. With this thruster configuration, they will achieve more than 80 tonnes of bollard pull and a maximum speed of 12.5 knots.

The first of the four tugboats is scheduled to enter service in 2022.