ferry technology Schottel’S new nav unit Late this year, schotteL is expected to launch a new generation of Navigators with the NAV 200 propulsion unit. In principle the NAV is an adaptation of the Schottel Rudderpropeller with an engine and related equipment. Additionally the base frame accommodates the daily fuel tank. In the case of the NAV 200, the tank has a capacity of about 600 liters. A diesel engine is used as the prime mover and the switch cabinet includes electrical and electronic monitoring elements. The clutch between the prime mover and the Rudderpropeller transmits the power through a flexible coupling and a universal shaft. The propeller can be raised and lowered in vertical direction and also pivoted to the rear. Maintenance of the Navigator is easy because it is installed on a foundation prepared by the shipyard. Another advantage is the flexible applicability. The Schottel Navigator can be used in barges, ferries, working boats or floating cranes. Schottel also offers various product variants with the new generation of Navigators, including the NAV Basic, NAV Of fshore and NAV Soundproof. The Offshore and Soundproof versions can be combined. The canopies for all the units are galvanized and the Offshore and Soundproof models have forced ventilation. The Rudderpropeller of NAV Offshore unit is also protected by an additional cover. Reducedemission diesel engines from MAN or Caterpillar supply the input power to the propeller, ranging from 190 kW (NAV 0320) to 746 kW (NAV 550).
Steerprop Ltd. has been contracted to deliver two SP 120 ECO CRP propulsors for the vessel. Each has a power rating of 7,000 kW. To ensure safe operation year round, the propulsors will be ice-classed in the demanding Finnish-Swedish 1 A Super ice-class. Utilizing the high efficiency Steerprop Dual-End Contra Rotating Propellers (CRP), these propulsors are projected to offer a significant increase in efficiency— reducing emissions and fuel consumption.
STQ has also signed a second contract with Chantier Davie Canada, Inc. to build two 92m ferries that will burn LNG. Each ferry will have the capacity to carry 100 vehicles. Delivery is set for the spring and summer of 2015, respectively. With shale gas producing cheap, abundant natural gas and the North American ECA in force, it only seems like a matter of time before other North American ferry operators opt for LNG. ■
schottel’s new generation Nav unit, the Nav 200, will have a daily fuel tank capacity of 600 liters
September 2013 MARINE LOG 57