Hamburg-based Becker Marine Systems, a supplier of manoeuvring and energy-saving systems for the maritime industry, has unveiled two additional product areas for optimising ships’ hydrodynamic efficiency at SMM.
During a press conference at the joint stand of Becker Marine Systems and its strategic partner Nakashima Propellers at SMM, Becker Managing Director Henning Kuhlmann announced the official launch of two new product ranges: “Daggerboard” and “Steering Gear”, among other company news.
Becker Daggerboard – Optimised ship guidance for wind propulsion systems
The Becker Daggerboard is an anti-leeway fin developed at the company’s headquarters in Hamburg and designed for ships equipped with wind-assisted propulsion systems (WAPS). The “Daggerboard” offers considerable advantages in reducing drift and is characterised by a slim and effective design that can be integrated into various types of ships.
Background information: When using WAPS, not only the desired force components are generated, which propel the ship forward, but also stronger or weaker lateral force components, depending on the wind direction, which leads to drift from the desired course. These force components can be significantly reduced by using a “daggerboard”. This means that less compensation is required from the rudder. Efficiency can, therefore, be increased and energy consumption minimised.
Two models of the “Daggerboard” are available: a vertically extendable version with an adjustable fin angle and a version with a fixed fin that can be folded out of the hull. As both models are completely recessed in the hull, the daggerboard does not interfere with sailing in areas with shallow water depths, when sailing under engine power or when maneuvering in harbour areas.
Becker Steering Gear – know-how for efficient and reliable steering systems
Becker stands for efficient steering systems with excellent manoeuvrability and proven reliability. For the company, it is a logical development to offer optimally suited steering machines. The “Becker Steering Gear” is equipped with a low-pressure hydraulic system, making it efficient and space-saving. The integrated bearings and the rudder carrier made of durable plastics ensure long-lasting performance with minimal maintenance. The Becker Steering Gear comprises eight different types with torques from 160K Nm to 500 KNm and has been developed for smaller vessels such as offshore supply vessels, trawlers, anchor supply tugs and yachts.
