Sterntube-less Ship with Thordon COMPAC
On June 9, 2022, classification society ABS granted Approval in Principle (AIP) to Shanghai Merchant Ship Design and Research Institute (SDARI) for the “sterntube-less ship” concept developed in cooperation with, the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) and Thordon Bearings Inc.
This revolutionary design replaces a vessel’s sterntube with an irregular shaped chamber that allows for a shorter propeller shaft with a seawater lubricated single bearing and seal that can be inspected and maintained while the vessel is afloat, without ever having to withdraw the shaft in drydock.
Compared to a traditional sealed oil-lubricated shaftline, the sterntube-less ship concept removes the sterntube casting, reduces the shaft line length, moves the engine aft, and increases the cargo space in most ships.
This new design can better support simplified compliance with environmental-focused regulations, such as the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI), and can enable more efficient use of the engine’s propulsive power, since the whole RPM range of speeds is available for continuous operation. And it completely eliminates the need for an oil-lubricated shaft line – a major source of marine pollution – the design can save shipowners hundreds of thousands of dollars in capital and operational expenditure over a vessel’s lifespan.
More Cargo Carrying Capacity (Engine Moved Aft)
No Shaft Withdrawal Needed for Bearings and Seals
If oil-lubricated bearings require replacement, shaft withdrawal is necessary.
Contact Thordon for more information on Thordon products.