Propulsion retrofit yields major drop in energy consumption

Norwegian ferry operator Torghatten Trafikkselskap recently upgraded one of its ferries’ propulsion systems, which involved the installation of two Schottel EcoPellers (SRE). This move allowed the vessel’s energy consumption – and thus its environmental impact – to be reduced by up to 25%.

A propulsion retrofit incorporating Schottel EcoPellers has resulted in a significant improvement in energy consumption for a RoPax ferry operated by Torghatten Trafikkselskap. (Photo: Schottel)

In an effort to further increase environmental safety, the SRE now also incorporates the DNV type-approved Schottel LeaCon sealing monitoring system.

At the end of 2020, Torghatten’s double-ended RoPax ferry was retrofitted with two electrically driven Schottel SRE 340 L CP EcoPellers rated 750 kW each. “We opted for the EcoPellers because we were convinced that they best met our requirements and would support us on our way to an eco-friendly future,” said Gunnar Heringbotn, technical manager at Torghatten Trafikkselskap. “Today we know this decision was exactly the right one.

“With the help of Schottel’s customized retrofit concept, we are saving up to 25%. As a result, we not only significantly reduce operating costs, but also emissions for the environment.”

Torghatten’s double-ended RoPax ferry was retrofitted with two electrically driven Schottel SRE 340 L CP EcoPellers rated 750 kW each. (Photo: Schottel)

A hydrodynamically optimized design allows the EcoPeller to produce maximum steering forces and top values in terms of overall efficiency and course-keeping ability, Schottel said. This reduces fuel consumption and ensures lower operating costs and emissions.

Schottel’s LeaCon is a seal monitoring system certified by DNV. It is designed to offer safe and reliable protection against seawater contamination caused by operating materials. Separate seals to the seawater and to the gearbox side ensure that both seawater coming into the system and gear oil going out of the system are collected in an intermediate chamber. LeaCon is also used to monitor the condition of the seals, so operational wear can be detected at an early stage and unscheduled maintenance avoided.