Following on the heels of the new special purpose vessel Meteor IV for the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, the non-profit Schmidt Ocean Institute’s (SOI) research vessel R/V FALKOR II is also using proven propulsion technology made in Germany. It represents another prestigious project for Voith in the scientific segment.
The SOI was founded in 2009 by Eric and Wendy Schmidt to drive oceanographic research through the development of innovative technologies, the open exchange of information, and widespread communication about the health of the oceans. Year around, the institute operates the world’s only philanthropic vessel – the ultra-modern R/V FALKOR II – made available free of charge to the international research community.
The 110-meter long and 20-meter wide R/V FALKOR II was built more than 10 years ago by Norwegian shipping company GC Rieber and was originally called Polar Queen. It was purchased by the SOI in 2021 and following a complete upgrade became the direct successor to the much smaller and first FALKOR vessel.
On an area of 980 square meters, it offers sufficient space for 98 people and state-of-the-art research technology. There are a total of eight laboratories on board – including a 105-square-meter main lab, wet labs, scientific seawater lab, computer electronics lab, robotics lab and cold lab for biological work.
The research vessel also boasts a special system for microplastic water analysis and three multibeam echosounder arrays, 11 tons of sonars and 15 other acoustic sensors. Accordingly, when it came to the propulsion technology for the vessel, the SOI’s priorities were minimal noise emissions underwater, maximum maneuverability, precise positioning and active roll stabilization.
“For all the criteria important to the customer, the powerful Voith Schneider Propellers (VSP) installed over 10 years ago when the ship was launched continue to offer unbeatable benefits and a major edge over comparable solutions from other competitors,” says Michael Rommel, Head of Sales & Application Management Marine at Voith.
Initially already designed to meet the highest requirements, the two VSP 36R6 ECR/300-2 in the stern ensure the necessary thrust and comfort of the R/V FALKOR II. Following a comprehensive general overhaul of the propellers, the researchers and crew on board will be able to work safely and without distractions in future, even in rough seas, while relying on the outstanding positioning accuracy and active roll stabilisation of the Voith Schneider Propellers.
“We are currently still acquiring our first practical experience with the VSP. However, I can tell you this much today: The bridge officers and I are constantly amazed by the minimal vibrations and low noise from this great propulsion solution made in Germany,” confirms Dan Buehler, Chief Engineer of the R/V FALKOR II
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