Berg Propulsion reports fuel consumption efficiencies after propeller upgrade

Stena Danica’s twin control pitch propellers are served by two Sulzer 12ZV40 medium-speed engines per shaft. After several months of commercial operations in multiple sea states, Mr Wimby reported that using the new propeller blades, the vessel reduced average fuel consumption and neutralised a longstanding issue with vibrations.

Berg Propulsion representative for after market business development, Victor Abrahamsson said the blade design had been optimised to reflect a planned reduction in operating speeds, in a compromise between one engine per shaft line running at full power or two engines running per shaft, without ‘overpitching’.  

“Blade geometry has moved on quickly in recent years, based on more accurate calculations, 3D scanning and better modelling tools. Today, we make better use of materials so that the same or enhanced efficiencies are achieved using slimmer profiles and blades which cover less area. It’s also much easier to evaluate and predict the relative performance of different blade types.”

Stena Danica entered service in 1983 but, having been fully renewed in 2005, still works the route linking Sweden and Denmark, connecting the ports of Gothenburg and Frederikshavn.

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