Sustainable propeller technology to take the spotlight at SMM 2024

Sustainability and digitalization are expected to be key themes at this year’s SMM 2024 event in Hamburg, as the maritime industry faces growing regulatory pressures. With stricter environmental regulations on the horizon, shipping companies and shipowners are prioritizing sustainable propulsion technologies. Voith Turbo, a German firm, will be highlighting its innovative electric Voith Schneider propeller (eVSP) at the event, which is designed to reduce underwater radiated noise (URN), a major environmental concern.

URN is responsible for about 85% of noise pollution from ships, which has been shown to negatively impact marine life, including large mammals and fish. Voith’s latest eight-blade eVSP helps mitigate this issue by significantly lowering noise levels produced by vessels. The new propeller will be featured on the Meteor IV, a research vessel being built for the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, designed to address environmental and climate-related tasks.

Emissions regulations drive innovation in low-carbon technologies

Voith will also showcase its inline thruster and its rcVSP system for remote-controlled ship operations, aimed at improving the efficiency and safety of tugboat operations. Visitors to the SMM event will be able to explore these innovations at Voith’s booth from September 3-6, 2024.