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Side thruster

A side thruster is a propulsion device mounted to a ship's bow or installed in a tunnel built into the ship's bow.
It enables a vessel to turn or move sideways when docking or departing and is used for heading control and dynamic positioning with outstanding maneuverability.

Since 1965, Kawasaki side thrusters have been a moving force behind just about every kind of marine vessel from cargo carriers and ferries to offshore ships. At the core of every Kawasaki side thruster lies world-class engineering that is propelling these machines to the forefront of the global shipping and maritime industry.

A side thruster provides ships with the following advantages:
•Enhanced maneuverability and cost-efficiency when entering and leaving port
•Safer vessel operation in narrow waterways
•Dynamic positioning for safe offshore operation

Features

•Extensive product line
Wide range of input power to meet virtually any vessel specifications
Input power: up to 4,000 kW

•Compact design
The side thruster's overall minimal length means it can be installed in a vessel location that generates the greatest turning moment.

•Low vibration and low noise
A skewed propeller design and vortex eliminator minimize vibration and noise.

•Easy maintenance
Thruster or propeller blades can be removed inside the tunnel for easy inspection and maintenance.

•Can be linked to any prime mover
Can be used with virtually any type of motor, including a 60Hz or 50Hz electric motor, engine, or hydraulic motor

•Can be integrated with a dynamic positioning system (DPS)
Built tough enough to withstand long periods of continuous operation in vessels outfitted with a DPS

•Low noise double wall tunnel (optional)
Double tunnel structure made of special material reduces thruster noise

•Fixed pitch propeller (FPP) type (optional)