Study identifies benefits of Thordon’s T-BOSS system
The T-BOSS® system simplifies maintenance procedures thanks to its unique sterntubeless design and dry inspection chamber
(Source: Thordon Bearings)
A study based on a Suezmax tanker has shown the benefits of the T-BOSS® shaftline which replaced a conventional oil-lubricated stern tube on board the vessel.
The Thordon-Blue Ocean Stern Space (T-BOSS) system demonstrated a range of benefits including a shorter shaft length, more space for cargo, and a simpler design of the tanker’s stern. It therefore offers significant benefits for ship designers and builders, the company claims.
The study assessed all shipbuilding disciplines including sealing systems, piping, structural works, shafting, outfitting, painting, electrical systems, testing, and regulatory issues. The comparison indicated that labour and installation costs would be lower than a conventional stern tube system.
There are also significant savings in operating costs. The seawater-lubricated system replaces the requirement for environmentally acceptable lubricant which, for a ship of this size, would cost about USD 33,000 on delivery, and an estimated USD 11,500 annually thereafter. The system’s polymer bearings have lower friction than oil-lubricated metal bearings, saving fuel.
The system was developed jointly by Thordon Bearings, Wärtsilä Shaft Line Solutions, CSSC - Shanghai Merchant Ship Design and Research Institute (SDARI), ABS, and the National Technical University of Athens.
The study was based on work carried out by Hydrus Engineering of Greece, and data from JBL Tech Service, ABS, and Thordon Bearings.
Thordon Bearings at SMM: Hall A4 / Stand 123
