Recently, the French Louis Dreyfus Armateurs Group (LDA) selected SCHOTTEL to supply SRP-D type dynamic rudder propeller thrusters for two new wind farm service operation vessels (SOVs) being built for the European energy company Vattenfall.
These two “walk-to-work” vessels, designed by the Norwegian ship design company SALT Ship Design, will be constructed by Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries (ZPMC).
Arthur Barret, Head of Engineering, Projects & Innovation at LDA, stated: “After a comprehensive evaluation of future SOV thruster solutions, we chose a configuration of four identical SRP-D dynamic rudder propellers. This setup offers advanced dynamic positioning performance, which is crucial for ensuring vessel operational stability. We also have full confidence in the reliability of SCHOTTEL’s equipment.”
Each SOV will be equipped with four SCHOTTEL SRP 430 D dynamic rudder propeller thrusters, each with an input power of 1,660 kW, enabling precise positioning in demanding DP (dynamic positioning) operations. The SRP-D thrusters feature faster propeller acceleration/deceleration response and a high-speed azimuth steering system, along with reinforced gear components, allowing quicker thrust distribution compared to conventional rudder propellers. Thanks to shorter response times, the vessel can react more swiftly and precisely to external disturbances such as wind and currents, significantly improving positioning accuracy.
Additionally, the SRP-D adopts a compact design with an integrated vertical electric drive motor (LE-Drive) and an 8-degree inclined propeller shaft, effectively reducing interference between thrusters and between thrusters and the hull, thereby minimizing thrust loss.
The SRP-D was specifically developed for complex offshore operations, meeting the growing demand for efficient and reliable SOV performance. Even under harsh weather conditions, it ensures stable vessel positioning, increasing operational availability throughout the year. Its optimized thrust output is also expected to reduce fuel consumption. Since its launch in 2023, the SRP-D has seen strong market demand, with cumulative sales exceeding 50 units, demonstrating high market recognition.
The two new vessels under construction represent LDA’s next-generation SOVs, following the “Wind of Change” and “Wind of Hope,” and will similarly be equipped with a full set of SCHOTTEL propulsion systems. The new designs emphasize improved operational efficiency, increased uptime, and optimized energy performance. Additionally, the vessels will feature advanced adjustable gangway systems and 3D motion-compensated cranes.
The first SOV is expected to enter service in 2027, supporting Germany’s DanTysk and Sandbank offshore wind farms, while the second vessel is also scheduled for operation in 2027, serving the Nordlicht 1 and Nordlicht 2 wind farms, also located in Germany. A third SOV is an optional order planned for Vattenfall’s future projects in the North Sea.
