Hydraulic tunnel thrusters
from 35hp to 350hp and 2,700kg thrust.

KT30 – KT170 have the hydraulic motor mounted in the drive housing, directly coupled to the propeller shaft, which runs in tapered roller bearings built into the nozzle structure. These are pre-assembled and tested before delivery.

KT200 – KT300 have a lower gearbox in the tunnel, where the hydraulic motor is connected to the inlet housing inside the vessel. These larger units can also be driven by diesel via a cardan shaft and an angle gearbox. A selection of gear ratios is available to suit the engine output.

The tunnels are delivered in standard lengths in mild steel, aluminium or GRP with a stainless steel ring in the propeller area.

We have stock of materials and components — possibility for fast delivery.

from 50kW to 1,000kW

Our range of side thrusters is equipped with robust gearboxes. By using a high gear ratio, relatively large propellers can be used, which provides greater thrust at lower input power. Tunnel thrusters are delivered as standard with a stainless steel wear ring, mounted in a tunnel of steel or aluminium.

We deliver complete thrusters with AC frequency converter and vertical or horizontal electric induction motor or permanent magnet motor.

The control system is a 24V DC unit, designed to IP65 standards for use in wheelhouses or protected outdoor environments. It is controlled proportionally with a “put and stay” joystick.

Each unit can be selected for operation or placed in standby, and monitors four alarms. The unit is pre-wired, tested and delivered with plugs and ten metres of cable. It includes proportional control, warning and alarm functions, and can be integrated with autopilot and either single or multi-station control systems.

Wills Ridley has since 1963 delivered complete turnkey marine steering packages with certification available from all major classification societies (IACS):

Steering machines
in all desired configurations up to 30 tonne-metre torque per rudder, both hydraulic and fully electric. Complete systems with rudder can also be supplied.

Hydraulic power unit
single or double configuration, including PTO system.

Control system and bridge steering
PLC cabinet and complete manoeuvring system on the bridge with integration to external systems.