The Rim Drive tunnel thruster is a tightly integrated system combining electrical, mechanical and hydrodynamic elements. The electrical motor takes the form of a thin ring mounted in the tunnel. The stator carries the permanent magnet rotor in water-lubricated bearings and the rotor is fitted with propeller blades that point inwards.

In the future Rim Drive technology will be used in other types of propulsor

Features and benefits

• Improved water flow giving less noise and vibration
• Requires less space in vessel
• Easier maintenance. Unit can be demounted and mounted underwater for overhauling
• Higher efficiency
• Reduced pollution risk
• Can be applied to many types of vessel
• No oil seals against rotating parts

A new addition to the Rolls-Royce Kamewa Ulstein tunnel thruster range.The first size to go into service is 800kW, others will follow and the Rim Drive technology is also applicable to other thrusters for manoeuvring, position keeping and propulsion.

		Rim Drive thruster uses revolutionary technology 79kb Propulsion brochure 971kb

For more information see the Tunnel thrusters product
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