Schottel to supply Rudderpropellers for Rotortug sextet

Written by Nick Blenkey
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ART 85-32W class Rotortug

MARCH 22, 2017 — Schottel is to deliver 18 SRP 430 FP Rudderpropellers, rated at 1,765 kW each, for the six Robert Allan-designed ART 85-32W Advanced Rotortugs that Damen Song Cam Shipyard in Vietnam is to build for Australia’s Pilbara Marine Pty Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Fortescue Metals Group (see earlier story)

The tugs will be deployed at Pilbara Marine’s operations at Port Hedland on Australia’s west coast, the world’s largest bulk export port, from where Fortescue exports 165-170 million tonnes of iron ore per year.

Fortescue says that the strong presence of Schottel in Western Australia and Port Hedland for more than 10 years was a particular benefit for contracting the thrusters.

Thruster delivery is scheduled in autumn 2017 with an estimated delivery date of the tugs in 2017/2018.

Advanced Rotortugs were chosen for their outstanding maneuverability and capabilities. Their ability to control their own position during the most difficult maneuvers makes this system the most versatile around. The third thruster secures enhanced safety for the operator with the unique options to work over bow or stern with the same ease and the possibility to always work bow first.

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