SCHOTTEL to Equip New RoRo Cargo Vessel for United Launch Alliance

[By: SCHOTTEL]

SCHOTTEL is set to equip a new RoRo cargo vessel for U.S.-based United Launch Alliance (ULA) being constructed by Bollinger Shipyards in Amelia, Louisiana. The vessel, named SpaceShip, will play a crucial role in transporting Vulcan rockets from the factory in Decatur, Alabama, to launch sites at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida and Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The vessel will be outfitted with three SCHOTTEL RudderPropellers SRP 460 LE and two SCHOTTEL TransverseThrusters STT 1. The custom electric system for SpaceShip will be designed and supplied by elkon, a member of the SCHOTTEL Group. The completion of the vessel is scheduled for 2026.

Electrically Driven SRPs for Sustainable Power

The main propulsion system of SpaceShip will feature three SRP 460 units in the embedded L-Drive variant, each with an input power of 2100 kilowatts and a propeller diameter of 2.6 metres. With this setup, the vessel, measuring 111 meters in length and 25 meters in width, will achieve a maximum speed of 15 knots. The SRP 460 provides high manoeuvrability and course stability, along with powerful thrust in all directions. The L-Drive variant ensures a compact design with reduced height, ideal for installation in confined spaces or environments with limited space availability. Additionally, the design reduces mechanical parts, leading to lower maintenance costs.

Enhanced Manoeuvrability and Safety

To further enhance manoeuvring capabilities, SpaceShip will be equipped with two STT 1 units, each with an input power of 373 kilowatts and a propeller diameter of 1.3 metres. The STT 1 units offer exceptional performance for docking, casting-off, and demanding positioning tasks. Combined with the SRPs, the vessel will have outstanding manoeuvrability, crucial for the safe transport of valuable cargo. SCHOTTEL’s MasterStick joystick system will allow precise and comfortable control of all five propulsion units simultaneously.

State-of-the-Art Electrical System by elkon

elkon will provide cutting-edge Active Front End (AFE) Drive technology for SpaceShip’s main electrical propulsion system. This technology enhances propulsion efficiency, reduces fuel consumption, and improves overall vessel performance. The electrical system ensures quiet and smooth operation while optimizing energy management across all ship systems. Additionally, elkon will supply an Alarm Control and Monitoring System (ACMS) for real-time diagnostics, a Power Management System (PMS) for energy distribution optimization, and other essential components for operational safety, reliability, and performance.

Optimized Design and Collaboration

Thanks to the close collaboration between SCHOTTEL and elkon, SpaceShip’s propulsion and electrical systems are optimally aligned for efficiency and performance. The partnership between the two companies ensures cost-effective designs and reliable consultation. Customers benefit from a comprehensive network of service stations, advisors, and technicians for ongoing support.

Next-Generation Rocket – The Vulcan Rocket

The Vulcan rocket, developed by ULA, is a heavy-lift launch vehicle designed to replace older rockets in ULA’s fleet. Capable of supporting various missions by accommodating up to six solid-fuel boosters, the Vulcan rocket is a versatile option for transporting satellites into different orbits.