New diving bell ship for the Rhine and its tributaries fitted with SCHOTTEL propulsion units

SCHOTTEL says that the new diving bell ship from the Duisburg waterway and shipping authority (WSA Duisburg) is equipped with propulsion units supplied by the German manufacturer. Two rudderpropellers and a pump jet enable maximum manoeuvrability in narrow waterways. The special vessel is being built at the Dutch shipbuilder Damen Shipyards Gorinchem. The order was placed by FMSW Koblenz for the federal waterways and shipping administration.

Safe manoeuvring on the Rhine with SCHOTTEL propulsion units
The diving bell ship is powered by a total of three azimuth thrusters, two rudderpropellers and a pump jet. All systems are driven by electric motors. Both rudderpropellers type SRP 150 FP (330 kW each) have a ducted propeller diameter of 1.10 m, which provides the necessary thrust. This enables the diving bell ship to reach a vessel speed of at least 7 knots and, unlike its predecessor, will therefore be able to operate on the Rhine without towing assistance.

In combination with a SPJ 82 Pump Jet (340 kW), the ship can be safely manoeuvred on the Rhine and its regulated tributaries. Thanks to the completely flush installation in the ship’s hull, the jet is fully protected even in the event of grounding.