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De hydrospoiler, BARKE®-FLAPROER, BOSS™ OQM, dmc, dredging

Flex Tunnel

Home » Flex Tunnel

LONGER OPERATIONAL AT SHALLOW DRAUGHT

The Flex Tunnel is a retractable tunnel which can be deployed when necessary.

Retracted:
When a ship is loaded and sailing at or near maximum draught, the Flex Tunnel is kept retracted into the vessel’s hull. In this situation, the water flows to the propeller unobstructed. In comparison to a conventional fixed tunnel, the ability to retract the tunnel significantly reduces the overall resistance of a vessel.

Deployed:
When a ship is sailing with a shallow draught (e.g. in low water levels) its propellers may not be fully covered by the water, which will make them function less efficiently (high resistance and low velocity). This is when the Flex Tunnel can be deployed. This ensures that water flows over the propeller. With the Flex Tunnel a vessel can sail longer in shallow waters and/or can take more cargo. The risk of not being operational during shallow water periods is also significantly reduced.

The introduction of the Flex Tunnel goes back to 2010, when Damen Marine Components developed the concept together with research institute DST Duisburg. The retractable tunnel was extensively tested at different water depths and speeds in various configurations, and the resistance reduction when the tunnel is deployed was also measured. The result was one clear conclusion; the Flex Tunnel provides considerably higher operational efficiency for the entire vessel.

To install a Flex Tunnel, the entire hull design has to be adapted. This innovation is therefore not suited to existing vessels.

ADVANTAGES

  • Propulsion efficiency improvements of approximately 10%
  • Less water resistance
  • Considerable fuel savings
  • Good manoeuvrability at low speeds and shallow draught
  • Enables smaller propellers and lower engine capacity
  • Longer operational capability in shallow waters

APPLICATION

  • Newbuild inland vessels

Package

XR RUDDER

The XR rudder system is especially developed for optimal propulsion efficiency in combination with first-class manoeuvring characteristics

The design of the rudder trunk is eco-friendly and requires low maintenance.

Read more

2DWK STEERING SYSTEM

The 2DWK is an asymmetrical steering system developed for HD and XR rudder systems.

The 2DWK steering system is suitable for every type of vessel, but it is mainly designed for inland vessels.

Read more

4DWKK STEERING SYSTEM

The 4DWKK is a reliable asymmetric steering system, specifically engineered for the HD and XR rudder systems. The 4DWKK is specifically engineered for twin screw inland vessels with four rudders.

Read more

SP2700 CONTROL SYSTEM

SP2700 is a real-time redundant digital steering installation with a control and alarm system.

Read more

HP7000 CONTROL SYSTEM

HP7000 is a proportional hydraulic installation This steering installation is completely independent of the electrical system.

Read more

CONTACT DMC

How can we help you?

For questions and/or comments, you can contact us using the details below or through the contact form.

DMC HQ

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