Retractable Azimuth Thruster - Shock qualified design

The Brunvoll Retractable Azimuth Thruster - Shock qualified design uses elastic deformation, resilient mounting and rubber isolation to absorb shock in compliance with naval specifications. Direct power transmission from a vertical top-mounted electric motor removes the need for special shafts, quick-release couplings or gearboxes, improving total efficiency.

Naval qualifications

• Shock qualified; EMI/EMC tested
• Materials selected for fire resistance and hazard control
• Product and manufacturing qualification
• Integrated Logistics Support; spare parts with NATO codification

Design

• Long vertical column, delivered pre-assembled with azimuth and retracting arrangements, guiding column and supporting structures on the tank top / sea chest integration plate
• Hydraulic lifting equipment lowers and retracts the unit; hydraulic actuators lock and pre-load it in operating position
• Spring-loaded mechanical locks in retracted position allow hull girder deflection and vertical movement under shock loads
• Hull opening closed by a flush plate with resilient landing elements / shock absorbers
• Mechanical brakes lock azimuth movement when not turning

Subsea unit

• Replaceable propeller blade bearing liners; blades replaceable inside the nozzle
• CP or FP propeller; various blade materials and designs
• Multiple shaft sealing system; non-polluting seals for EAL, compliant with US EPA VGP

Controls and applications

BruCon control, alarm and monitoring systems are available in shock-qualified versions for station keeping, search, surveillance and tracking. Applications include naval and coast guard vessels, research vessels, offshore supply vessels and shuttle tankers, including use as auxiliary or emergency take-home propulsion.