Steerprop powers DLR research ship

The shipyard is constructing a state-of-the-art research vessel for the German Aerospace Center (DLR) which will act as a floating laboratory, enabling research on maritime energy systems under real operating conditions.

The 48-metre-long, 11-metre-wide vessel is intended for voyages ranging from single days to several days across the North Sea and Baltic Sea and can accommodate up to 20 people.

“Working in close cooperation with the owner and shipyard was crucial to this project,” said Juho Rekola, director, Sales & Project Management, Steerprop.

“We are proud that our next generation of CRP technology will contribute to groundbreaking research on energy systems in maritime industry.”

This order, confirmed in March, marks the first deployment of Steerprop’s new CRP units, featuring two Steerprop 14 CRP LM units rated at 750 kW and built to Ice Class 1A standards. The design introduces pressure lubrication for smaller propulsion applications – potentially a world-first – achieving up to a reported 98.5% mechanical efficiency.

The vessel will also support advanced measuring capabilities, including load, torque, thrust and ice load data collection. Beyond serving DLR’s needs, it will offer research opportunities for Steerprop, other maritime suppliers and academia.