Steerprop
Customized testing solution for marine propulsion systems
Steerprop, a leading designer and manufacturer of marine propulsion systems, required a specialized torque jack for testing ship propulsion systems under simulated real-world conditions. They engaged Prevas to develop the system concept, create detailed budgeting, and conduct project simulations.
From need to solution – a unique testing system takes shape
The project demanded comprehensive engineering expertise, which Prevas delivered through a multidisciplinary team skilled in electrical and mechanical design, structural analysis, hydraulics, procurement, and automation. The result was the CRP Torque Jack, a sophisticated testing system tailored to Steerprop’s exact specifications.
While Steerprop brought deep expertise in propulsion systems, Prevas complemented their knowledge with extensive experience in testing methodologies, measurement systems, and specialized engineering disciplines crucial for the project’s success.
Engineering challenges
The technical complexity of the project centered on managing substantial forces.
“The high torque rating presented significant engineering challenges,” explains Sampo Siuko, Director of Technology and Business Development at Prevas. “We needed to design a frame that could withstand extreme forces while ensuring the load on the factory floor remained within specified limits.”
The torque jack was specifically engineered for contra-rotating propellers (CRP), featuring two propulsion axles. This required seamless integration of mechanical and automation systems to achieve precise torque control and adjustment, ensuring accurate simulation of real-world operating conditions.
As always in a project environment, a close cooperation and open information flows are important.
Sampo Siuko, Director of Technology and Business Development at Prevas
Successful implementation
The project’s commissioning phase revealed additional complexities in system calibration. Through technical expertise and problem-solving capabilities, the Prevas team successfully delivered the system on schedule.
“As always in a project environment, a close cooperation and open information flows are important,” says Sampo Siuko. “Commissioning was tightly scheduled, and the calibration of the system was more challenging that we estimated. The success of this project demonstrated how our team’s diverse engineering capabilities, combined with close customer collaboration, can overcome complex technical challenges.”
The project also led Prevas to expand its service portfolio. Recognizing the importance of managing structural loads in industrial equipment installation, Prevas has since added concrete and structural foundation design capabilities to its offerings, further enhancing its turnkey solution capabilities.
“The Steerprop CRP propeller torque test is a challenging task where the correct torque levels must be achieved simultaneously for both propeller shafts,” says Jukka Mäkilä, Production Manager at Steerprop. “The solution we have now implemented achieves this in a precise and controlled manner. We have worked with Prevas in the past to develop Steerprop's production, but this project surpassed the previous ones in both size and challenge. The project was kept under control throughout thanks to close cooperation and the weekly team meetings worked very well.”