Damen Marine Components Offers Variety Of Steering Solutions

Damen Marine Components, a division of Damen Shipyards Group, offers several maneuvering systems with heavy-duty Van der Velden steering gear and long-life rudders.

Damen designs and manufactures rudders, steering gear, hydraulic systems, controls and nozzles for commercial and naval vessels and superyachts.

Double Rudder Solution

Damen’s Van der Velden HD rudders are the outcome of many years of research and development specifically designed for operation in inland rivers. HD rudders have an asymmetrical profile and are always delivered as a double-rudder-system, in order to enhance maneuvering performance by providing sufficient rudder area.

Another advantage of the asymmetrical double-rudder-system are the 60/80 degrees rudder angles, which create better maneuverability during challenging situations where low speeds are necessary.

Single Rudder Solution

Damen also offers high-lift fishtail rudders HDS with stainless steel balance and adjustments for heavy duty circumstances. In this case, a single symmetric rudder is mounted behind the propeller. The profile of the fishtail rudder can be adapted to meet vessel requirements.

Retractable Flanking Rudders

Flanking rudders are an important part of Damen’s product portfolio serving the global pusher and towboat market. These additional rudders are positioned in front of the propellers, giving the convoy better control when backing or flanking.

Damen calls the Van der Velden FLEX flanking rudders “a total game-changer for the inland shipping market.” Because of their ability to fully retract into the vessel, they will not create needless resistance when unused. The operator simply extracts the rudders when needed. Since the retractable rudders affect the total aft design, this product is only applicable for new vessel designs.

Damen Marine Components is represented in the United States by Ships Machinery International Company.

Damen Shipyards Group

Based in the Netherlands, Damen Shipyards Group operates 34 shipbuilding and repair yards, employing 10,000 people worldwide. Damen has delivered more than 6,000 vessels in more than 100 countries and delivers some 160 vessels annually to customers worldwide.

Damen offers a wide range of products, including tugs, workboats, naval and patrol vessels, high speed craft, cargo vessels, dredgers, vessels for the offshore industry, ferries, pontoons and superyachts.