TKMS has selected Steerprop to provide the propulsion system for Germany’s new polar research icebreaker, the Polarstern. This decision highlights the importance of reliability, environmental sensitivity, and technological innovation for the vessel’s demanding missions in the Arctic and Antarctic.
The New Polarstern Project
The new Polarstern, which is set to enter service in 2030, is being built by TKMS for the Alfred Wegener Institute. The vessel will be built to Ice Class PC2 and is designed to operate for up to 310 days a year, serving as a floating laboratory to study climate change and marine ecosystems. It will also be used to supply the Neumayer Station III in Antarctica.
Advanced Propulsion System
Steerprop was chosen for its azimuth propulsion system, featuring two SP 160 PULL ARC azimuth propulsors. These units, each delivering 9 MW of power, are the largest mechanical units of their kind ever built. The system is required to maintain a steady speed of 3 knots through multiyear ice up to 1.8 meters thick. Key reasons for the selection include the system’s exceptional reliability, its ultra-low underwater radiated noise (URN) which is critical for operating in fragile ecosystems, and its predictive maintenance capabilities.
Focus on Reliability and Efficiency
The vessel’s long service life and limited time in port make reliability and cost-efficiency crucial. Steerprop’s Steerprop Care condition monitoring system will be supplied, providing detailed data on the propulsors’ health. This allows for proactive, data-driven maintenance and helps to avoid unscheduled downtime. Steerprop’s role extends to a full partnership, as they are also responsible for the hydrodynamic design of the vessel’s center shaft line propeller to ensure optimal system integration.
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Source: Steer Prop
