Damen Marine Components (DMC) has been awarded the contract for Optima nozzles, plug-and-play Piston-type steering gear and TIMON flap rudders for four coasters being built by Thecla Bodewes Shipyards (TB Shipyards). What is special is that the steering gear will be supplied plug-and-play, which saves a lot of time during the final installation on board.
The four identical coasters will measure 118 x 14.3 x 6.2 metres. TB Shipyards is building the 7000-DWT diesel-electric multi-purpose dry cargo vessels for Vertom. CFD (computational fluid dynamics) optimisation of the hull design has been performed for a fuel-efficient speed-power performance powered by a future-proof modular electric propulsion system. The completely box-shaped holds ensure maximum loading flexibility and cargo intake.
Also read: Thecla Bodewes Shipyards to build four 7000-DWT vessels for Vertom
Plug-and-play
DMC will build the Van der Velden Piston-type steering systems in its workshop in Hardinxveld-Giessendam. The complete steering gear on a foundation, including starters, cylinders and all other necessary parts, is then lifted on board at TB Shipyards in the steering gear room and connected to the rudder. Installation therefore takes only a fraction of the time that would have been required if everything had to be installed separately.
‘TB Shipyards opted for a plug-and-play version in order to have the steering gear delivered and installed very quickly and efficiently,’ says Leo van Zon, Area Sales Manager at DMC. ‘Building components as efficiently as possible on one frame and testing them in your own workshop creates a complete product of high quality and functionality. This saves time during the outfitting and installation, which is usually carried out by the yard. With the installation of plug-and-play steering gear, very little can go wrong, which minimises risks during outfitting, but also during the life of the ship.’
Also read: Damen targets shipyard emissions with battery container
TIMON flap rudder and Optima nozzle
DMC also equips each coaster with the Van der Velden TIMON flap rudder system and Optima nozzle. The latter offers good forward and reverse thrust and an extremely strong profile. For control and monitoring, DMC supplies the complete FU system and BOSS Alarm Monitoring System.
The project is scheduled to be completed at the end of 2023, when all coasters are expected to be delivered and commissioned.
Also read: Damen Shipyards achieves EU Stage V certification for emission reduction system
