In-Depth Suezmax Study Makes Capex Case For T-Boss® Sterntubeless Shaftline System
An in-depth evaluation study based on reference data from a Suezmax crude oil tanker has demonstrated the benefits of using Thordon Bearings’ innovative T-BOSS® shaftline solution instead of a conventional oil lubricated sterntube system. The comprehensive study assessed the CAPEX for a sterntubeless T-BOSS® (Thordon – Blue Ocean Stern Space) system installed on a 274m ...
An in-depth study has shown that Thordon Bearings' innovative T-BOSS® shaftline system offers significant cost and design benefits for Suezmax crude oil tankers. The analysis, based on reference data from a 274-meter-long tanker, found that the T-BOSS® system, which uses seawater lubrication instead of oil, delivers lower CAPEX and operating costs.
The T-BOSS® solution provides design flexibility by shortening the shaft length, creating extra cargo space, and improving stern arrangements. This enables shipowners to allocate more onboard space for cargo or adjust the main engine location for additional benefits, such as installing a shaft generator to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and potential carbon credits.
Moreover, the T-BOSS® system eliminates expenses related to sterntube lubricating oil, saving around $33,000 upfront and $11,500 annually in operating costs. Polymer bearings also experience lower friction than traditional metal bearings, reducing shaftline drag and resulting in about $5,100 in fuel savings per year.
By removing the risk of oil pollution, the T-BOSS® system minimizes regulatory compliance costs, as there is no need to purchase expensive Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants (EALs) to meet strict IMO environmental regulations. The system's unique sterntubeless design and dry inspection chamber also simplify maintenance procedures, allowing engineers to inspect and replace COMPAC bearings without removing the propeller shaft or propeller, thereby reducing downtime and maintenance expenses.
The combined benefits of lower CAPEX, reduced complexity, greater design flexibility, and a more attractive ship design for buyers make the T-BOSS® system an appealing choice for shipbuilders and naval architects worldwide. The study, conducted by Hydrus Engineering with contributions from JBL Tech Service, ABS, and Thordon Bearings, highlights the T-BOSS® system as a valuable contributor to innovative, greener, and safer ship design.
Written by urgent.news from Hellenic Shipping News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
