Damen Marine Components
About us
Rudders, steering gears, nozzles, winches and control & monitoring systems
Damen Marine Components (DMC) supplies marine components and systems aimed at improving vessel performance. With more than 150 years of experience, DMC operates as a supplier within the international maritime industry.
The product portfolio includes rudders, steering gears, nozzles, winches and advanced control and monitoring systems. The focus is on the effective integration of components and systems throughout the entire lifecycle, from design and engineering to service and maintenance.
Product development and engineering are carried out in close cooperation with shipyards, research institutes, naval architects, and fleet owners worldwide. As part of the Damen Shipyards Group, designs can be based on extensive design and operational data from vessels in service.
With production facilities in the Netherlands, Poland and China, combined with a global 24/7 service network, support is available wherever and whenever required.
Damen Marine Components – partner in improved vessel performance
Member of the Damen Shipyards Group.
Products & services
Flex Tunnel
The Flex Tunnel is a retractable tunnel which can be deployed when necessary. Retracted: When a ship is loaded and sailing in deep draught, the Flex Tunnel is retracted and embedded into the vessel hull. In this situation, the water flows into the propeller unobstructed. In comparison to a conventional tunnel, the flexible retraction of this system significantly reduces the overall resistance of a vessel. Deployed: When a ship sails at shallow draught (e.g. with low water levels) , the propellers are not fully covered in the water, which makes them function less (high resistance and low velocity). This is when the Flex Tunnel needs to bedeployed. This guarantees water inflow to the propeller, making a ship operational for a longer period of time. With the Flex Tunnel a vessel can sail longer on shallow waters and/or can take more cargo. The risk of not being operational during shallow water periods is significantly reduced.
24/7 Global Service Network
Damen Marine Components offers a variety of professional services to keep your manoeuvring system in excellent condition. These include: - Commissioning - Installation - Maintenance - Inspections - Repairs - Service contracts - Upgrades and modifications - Spare parts These services are performed by our skilled service engineers, and can be provided at your location. Our extensive network allows us to be quickly on location.
Renewed Optima Nozzle
The Optima nozzle is the shipowner’s choice: it is the best-running nozzle type for pushers, tugs, icebreakers, dredgers, coasters, fishing vessels and workboats since 1998. Why? Because it significantly improves your forward and reverse thrust. In 2023 we re-introduced the Optima, redesigning it using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to further optimise its profile shape and performance. The updated nozzle generates even more forward and backward thrust than its predecessor (up to 3.4%!), resulting in lower fuel consumption and reduced CO2 emissions. Its proven, exceptional forward and reverse thrust performance caters to a diverse range of vessels. Indeed, with its engineered and robust profile, it makes for an ideal choice for icebreakers, inland shipping vessels, pushers, tugs, workboats, dredgers, and various other vessels operating under conditions demanding substantial power output and harsh sailing conditions Easy to replace or refit Another benefit: when replacing your old nozzle, existing vessel designs do not have to be modified. The new profile fits seamlessly into the current construction. The re-designed Optima brings you: - up to 3.4% more thrust - optimal reverse thrust - lower fuel consumption - further reduced sound levels - significantly reduced vibrations - easy installation
BOSS™ ECO
Damen Marine Components developed the BOSS™ECO to provide insight into excessive rudder movements using the sensors of a vessel. A touchscreen display with integrated software continuously calculates and shows the steering behaviour in relation to the steering movements and rudder angles, aligned to the actual sailing situation. The BOSS™ECO system measures and shows the following: rudder angles, CO2 emission, fuel consumption per litre or kilometre, speed, rate of turn (ROT) and steering efficiency indicator (SEI). By giving insight into these measurements, it allows the captain to be more conscious of his or her sailing behaviour, which can lead to considerable fuel savings. Preliminary practice results show fuel savings of approximately 12%. In addition, the BOSS™ECO system saves the data in a trip registration sheet. The data, which is collected per voyage, will be saved in an overview where you can directly compare your steering behaviour and efficiency. It is possible to send the data overview via e-mail, to save it or to print it. Manoeuvring is necessary on inland waterways. Every rudder movement creates extra ship resistance and by preventing excessive steering corrections you can improve your transport performance (EOI). It is proven that, once the BOSS™ECO is used according to its functions, fuel savings up to 20% can be achieved. The BOSS™ECO system is suitable for all types of vessel, both new built and retrofit, and is available in the languages English, Dutch and German. If not already present, DMC additionally supplies an accurate fuel sensor. ESPECIALLY SUITED FOR Vessels with hydraulic rudder- and steering systems KEY FEATURES Considerable fuel savings Reduced wear of rudder and steering equipment Minimal maintenance Improved transport performance (EOI) Up to 70% less steering movements Ready for IOT- cloud
SP2700 control system
The type SP 2700 is a real-time redundant digital steering installation with a control and alarm system. Three options are built into the system, allowing you to choose between main or pilot steering or directly linked emergency steering. FU steering is optional. Alarms are indicated directly on the SP 2700 starter unit. A unique characteristic of the SP 2700 is its software, which simplifies and improves the start-up process, maintenance and services. In addition, the system was developed with the latest technologies and is in accordance with current and expected regulations. The SP 2700 system consists of: - SP 2700 alarm and control panel - RI 2700 rudder indicator - TMU 2700 feedback unit - SP 1000 control and starter unit The SP2700 is extra safe and performs considerably above its class. This is because the system was approved and tested for marine standards in enclosed spaces with ambient temperatures from -5° up to +70°.
HP7000 control system
The HP7000 is the world's safest proportional hydraulic installation. The control valve in the engine room can be operated directly via a hydraulic displacement system. As the rudder position indicator has its own backup system, this unique steering installation is completely independent of the electrical system. The HP 7000 can be used in combination with the latest autopilots. The HP 7000 system consists of: - Alarm, Control and Indication unit - Full hydraulic steering system - TMU 2700 feedback unit - SP 1000 control and starter unit The HP7000 is extra safe and performs highly above its class, this is because the system can operate without electronics and was approved and tested for marine standards in enclosed spaces with ambient temperatures from -5° up to +70°.
Rotor Manoeuvring System (RMS)
The Rotor Manoeuvring System (RMS) has been specifically developed to increase safety during navigation. It offers ships increased steering power in the bow and significantly improves manoeuvrability by providing thrust to overcome lateral wind forces. The operation of the RMS is based on the Magnus effect, whereby a lift force is generated by a submerged rotating composite tube that greatly improves the course stability of an unloaded ship. The RMS functions at a sailing speed from 6 km/h. By using this manoeuvring system a ship’s crew can reduce steering movements, resulting in reduced resistance and fuel savings. Advantages: - Fast changeover between port and starboard power - Compact compared to conventional rotor bow manoeuvring systems and bow thruster systems - Increased steering power in the bow - Results in fuel savings when used correctly - Operates as soon as the bow thruster stops working
Hydraulics
From our state-of-the-art facility in Hardinxveld-Giessendam, the Netherlands, Damen Marine Components designs, builds and installs high quality integrated hydraulics solutions. Engineered for maximum reliability, they apply the latest technologies and materials to deliver the highest standards of performance and safety. We deliver both production and custom hydraulic systems to serve all aspects of the maritime sector. Our power packs, valves, pumps and motors are all assembled in-house using top quality components from trusted suppliers. Our many years of accumulated experience in this sector is further enhanced by DMC’s complementary skills and resources. Having related disciplines such as electronics and PLC technology all under one roof enables us to supply right-first-time integrated hydraulic drive systems to meet any need. ADVANTAGES - Hydraulic products to meet every need - High quality, low maintenance - Integrated design, manufacture and supply service under one roof - Complementary monitoring and control systems - Global service and maintenance network APPLICATIONS - Steering systems - Winches - Nozzles & bow thrusters - Deck gear & towing pins - Centralised integrated systems for tugs and workboats
2DWK steering system
The 2DWK is an asymmetrical steering system developed for HD and XR rudder systems. With its heavy duty and maintenance-friendly design, this steering system is suitable for every type of inland vessel. The two double-acting hydraulic cylinders ensure reliability. This steering system offers unprecedented steering capabilities especially in combination with HD or XR rudders. The 2DWK steering system with connection rod is intended for single screw vessels with two rudders. DMC delivers the 2DWK steering system depending on the number and size of the propellers and steering requirements. Regardless of the configuration, you are assured of an excellent steering performance, maintenance-friendly design and a long lifespan. This steering system is approved by all classification societies. DMC advises: The Van der Velden® 4DWKK steering system in case of four connected rudders.
4DWKK steering system
The 4DWKK is an asymmetrical steering system developed for HD and XR rudder systems. This system is known for its three connection rods to control four rudders. With its heavy duty and maintenance-friendly design, this steering system is suitable for every type of inland vessel. Two double-acting hydraulic cylinders ensure reliability. This steering system offers unprecedented steering capabilities especially in combination with HD or XR rudders. The 4DWKK steering system with connection rod is intended for double screw vessels with four rudders. DMC delivers the 4DWKK steering system depending on the number and size of the propellers and steering requirements. Regardless of the configuration, you are assured of an excellent steering performance, maintenance-friendly design and a long lifespan. This steering system is approved by all classification societies. DMC advises: The Van der Velden® 2DWK steering system in case of two connected rudders.
HD rudders
The HD rudders provide an excellent manoeuvring performance, which is proven in practice and in the most stringent towing-tank trials. These high-efficiency rudders can be used with or without a nozzle. They have an asymmetrical profile and are always applied in a pair. The HD rudders have been especially developed for inland vessels in combination with a 2, 4 or 6 rudder propulsion set-up. The HD rudders have asymmetric rudder angles up to 80 degrees, providing optimal slipstream guidance. With these rudder you are assured of an excellent manoeuvring performance, also with low velocity (speed). They have a maintenance-friendly design and a long lifespan. DMC advises: The Van der Velden® Hydro spoiler for maximum performance. This spoiler improves the propulsion efficiency, increases speed and reduces vibrations and sounds.
XR rudders
The XR rudder is especially developed for optimal propulsion efficiency in combination with first-class manoeuvring characteristics, which comes from rudder angles up to 80 degrees. The design of the rudder is cost- and fuel efficient. The rudder trunk is eco-friendly and requires low maintenance. The XR rudders are optimally positioned in the propeller slipstream. This maximises the vessel speed with reduced vibrations and sounds. The rudder profile is developed to lower resistance and is therefore fuel saving. DMC advises: To further optimise the propulsion performance, one should consider the complete Van der Velden® FLEX Tunnel package, which includes the Van der Velden® XR rudders, the Van der Velden® XR hydro spoiler and the Van der Velden® FLEX Tunnels.
Hydro spoiler
The purpose of the Hydro Spoiler is to optimise water flow towards the rudder. A spoiler is placed behind the propeller, exactly on the centreline. The curved blades catch the outflowing water of the propeller and bend it from a swirling into a straight-outgoing flow towards the rudder, making the outflow of the propeller water more equable. Smooth water flow towards the rudder results in reduced noise and vibration levels. The Hydro Spoiler improves the propulsion efficiency and speed performance of a vessel, and enhances the ship’s course-keeping capabilities. Continuous research and experience since the introduction of the Van der Velden® Hydro Spoiler in 1998 have proven that these refinements increase vessel efficiency up to 8%. At DMC, there are three types of spoilers to choose from: - HD-B, known as our “standard” spoiler. - XR-B, this type is designed with a bulb for resistance reduction. - XR-T, this type is designed with a bulb with streaming body to fill up the entire wakefield from the propeller. ADVANTAGES - Improved speed performance - Reduced noise and vibrations - Improved vessel efficiency up to 8% - Enhanced course-keeping capabilities - Optimised water flow towards the rudder
Three Rudder System
In the 70’s, Van der Velden introduced the innovative three-rudder-system, which quickly became the most well-known system in the inland shipping industry. This system was, and is, still famed for the highest manoeuvrability on the narrow and curvy inland waterways, and other challenging navigating situations such as sluices and docking in small harbors. The middle rudder, a standard naca profile rudder, optimizes the wakefield coming from the propeller towards the outer rudders. A variant of the popular HD rudder is custom-designed for the outer two rudders. Even after years of market developments, this system will ensure the best possible manoeuvring. In Short: - Excellent manoeuvrability - Energy efficient - Fuel saving - Low emission (CO2) - Largest rudder angles in the world (max. 120°)
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