New developments in propulsion

摘要

Screw propellers have been the propulsion standard since the screw propeller driven HMS Rattler beat the paddle steamer Alecto in the famous tug-of-war between them in 1845. In the 20th century the maritime world has seen many new variations to that propeller, like the steerable thrusters, pods and RIM thrusters, but after water jets no new propulsor entered the market. Now, in the 21st century, the Voith linear Jet aims to do exactly that. Its design places the propulsor between propellers and water jets, combining the positive properties of both. The Welsh Company Turbine Transfers is the first to use the Linear Jet in its crew transfer catamaran Trearddur Bay. Captain Antony Robson: "It is not a prop boat and it is not a water jet boat, but given what we need she drives better than either."