New Schottel duct enhances propulsive efficiency

MAY 20, 2016—German propulsion specialist Schottel GmbH has enhanced its Rudderpropeller range with the new Schottel VarioDuct SDV45 high-performance nozzle to provide higher efficiency at open-water speed in combination with excellent bollard pull.

Schottel reports that the Schottel VarioDuct SDV45 achieves greater bollard pull and improved efficiency in the medium- and high-speed range than previous nozzle designs while using the same amount of propulsive power.

The system, consisting of a Rudderpropeller and the new nozzle, thus contributes significantly to fuel savings.

The new nozzle, with its compact geometry, offers considerably greater power than standard nozzles, such as the Wag-19A; it can also be optimally adapted to different vessel designs and applications. The small outer diameter also makes the nozzle ideally suited for shallow-water operation.

During the development of the new Schottel VarioDuct SDV45, Schottel used Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) calculations to investigate hundreds of geometry variants and thus determine the optimum design. This geometry is then tested by means of model trials to demonstrate the operating characteristics. Schottel uses CFD and other computer-based, 3D calculation methods for the in-house development of custom-tailored and optimally coordinated propulsion systems for virtually all vessel types and applications. On the basis of extensive experience, hydrodynamics specialists optimize the systems in terms of power, durability, compactness and fuel savings in accordance with customer project requirements.