New thruster targets inland waterways market

Among innovations incorporated into the WST-14 are its space-saving compact design, an integrated slipping clutch that provides a cost competitive solution for maneuvering when combined with a fixed pitch (FP) propeller, and the ability to maintain and service the propeller shaft and steering seals without requiring a complete overhaul of the thruster. It has a straightforward, reliable design and is ice-class rated.

By combining the 6-cylinder in-line Wärtsilä 20 engine with the WST-14 thruster, a solution package that is well-suited to the specific demands of river and inland waterway operation can be offered. It also attractive for other marine applications, such as tugs, where maneuvering in harbors and/or ice conditions is required.  

Wärtsilä says that, compared to conventional fixed pitch (FP) and controllable pitch (CP) propeller drive line solutions, the WST-14 thruster enables a greater load capacity for the vessel. This offers increased revenues for the owner/operator since more cargo can be transported.

"This project began two years ago and we are delighted to announce that the WST-14 is now available to the market. This introduction fills a particular need in the inland waterway vessel sector, and it is already attracting interest from owners and yards in Asia, Europe and America. Wärtsilä is now able to offer a complete and highly efficient propulsion package for this specific market," says Arto Lehtinen, Vice President, Propulsion, Wärtsilä Marine Solutions.

The WST-14 will be featured at the Neva exhibition to be held in St.Petersburg, Russia, September 22-25, 2015.

Wärtsilä 20 engine with the WST-14 thruster