Designed for maximum power transmission and maintenance-free operation:
Flexshaft Drive Shafts for Ship Propulsion
Naval vessel power train systems are constantly exposed to varying loads. The flexshaft torque shaft is specifically designed to meet the unique requirements related to the load transmission and vibration dynamics in ships.
It enables direct torque transmission from the engine to the propeller and allows for a continuous transmission of torque up to 10,000 kNm. Its low bending stiffness means the flexshaft can compensate angle misalignments and axial displacements, serving as a flexible coupling. This reduces the need for moveable parts that frequently require maintenance, thus dramatically reducing system complexity and mechanical servicing requirements.
Thanks to its low density and the resulting high specific stiffness of the CFRP material, flexshaft drive shafts allow for a much longer span distance of up to 13,000 mm, significantly reducing the number of intermediate bearings to support the shaft. As a result, there is significant potential to reduce investments in expensive bearings and supporting elements.
Highly functional drive shafts for reliable and maintenance-free operation on the high seas
The flexshaft is ideal for the specific load requirements of a drive shaft in continuous operation between the ship’s engine and the propeller. Its outstanding damping performance ensures propulsion at low-noise and low-vibration levels. Handling and transport are also much easier thanks to the much lighter construction compared to drive shafts made of steel. And thanks to absolutely maintenance-free operation throughout its complete service life, the flexshaft significantly contributes to sea freight profitability.
High Torque Strength Double tapered design ensures reliable load transfer from the carbon fibre shaft to the connection flange.
Low Bending Stiffness to compensate axial and angle displacements
10,000 kNm
13,000 mm
1,500 mm
CFRP
Tailor-made Torsional Stiffness for best balance between strength and damping
Max torque ..............................
Max length ...............................
Max diameter .............................
Material ............................................
In naval power transmissions equipped with flexshaft drive shafts, expensive and high-maintenance intermediate bearings can be omitted.
Because of their low weight, handling and replacement of flexshaft drives are carried out much easier.
High bending flexibility can balance angle and axial misalignments; shown here, an angle displacement of 2 rad*10e-3 and an axial offset of 17 mm.
larger spans
thanks to higher specific stiffness
low upfront investment
due to reduced design complexities and simplified layouts
less assembly effort
by avoiding extraneous mechanical components
significantly reduced weight
for faster, simplified handling
outstanding damping
for low noise and low vibration operation
maintenance-free
over the complete service life thanks to corrosion resistance and bearing-reduced design
high operational reliability
on account of a fully integrated in situ manufacturing process and significantly improved fatigue strength
low energy consumption
due to low inertia torque
Features and benefits at a glance