Six SCHOTTEL-propelled Rotortugs® delivered to Australian Fortescue Metals Group

SCHOTTEL says that Six Robert Allan-designed ART 85-32W Rotortugs have been delivered to Perth-based Fortescue Metals Group (Fortescue). The advanced tugboats – “FMG Dusky”, “FMG Tawny”, “FMG Spinner”, “FMG Hammerhead”, “FMG Blacktip” and “FMG Mako” – were built by Damen Song Cam Shipyard in Vietnam and are driven by SCHOTTEL propulsion systems. Each of the new Fortescue tugs is equipped with three SCHOTTEL Rudderpropellers type SRP 430 FP with an input power of 1,765 kW per thruster.

Strong presence in Western Australia
According to Fortescue, SCHOTTEL’s experience in Rotortug propulsion as well as its strong presence in Western Australia and Port Hedland for more than 10 years were of particular appeal when opting for these azimuth thrusters.

Outstanding manoeuvrability
Chosen for their excellent capabilities, the advanced Rotortugs particularly stand out in their ability to control their own position during the most difficult manoeuvers, thus making their system the most versatile around. The third thruster secures enhanced safety for the operator with the unique option to work over bow or stern with the same ease as well as the possibility to always work bow first.

New towage license in Port Hedland
The tugs will enable Fortescue to offer an exceptional escort and berthing service at Herb Elliott Port in Port Hedland, Western Australia, which is the largest iron ore export port in the world. Fortescue’s new towage licence in Port Hedland will service vessels carrying iron ore to customers across the globe, especially in China.

About SCHOTTEL
The SCHOTTEL Group, with its headquarters in Spay/Rhine, is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of steerable propulsion systems for ships and offshore applications. Founded in 1921, the company has been developing and manufacturing azimuth propulsion and complete propulsion systems with power ratings of up to 30 MW for vessels of all sizes and types, for almost 70 years. Around 100 sales and service locations worldwide ensure customer proximity.