Feature 8 | WATERJETS
Dynamics has made further inroads into new market segments while expanding its portfolio through recourse to more advanced design tools. Te latest addition to the UltraJet range, the UJ525, has a maximum input power of 1100kW (1475bhp), and is suitable for single, twin, triple or quad installations in boats up to 200tonnes. Offering a high-performance solution
where size and constraints have previously made it difficult to provide an optimised waterjet package, the UJ525 attracted its first order before the design had been finalised. Nonetheless, deliveries were affected on time, in accordance with the customer’s requirements for a new 18m catamaran project. The UJ525 represents a milestone
for the Cheltenham-based company, as the first Ultrajet model to have been fully designed using a SolidWorks 3-D capability, facilitating a high degree of accuracy and allowing the water flow characteristics of the jet to be optimised, while reducing tooling costs. One of the key improvements is a redesigned reverse deflector and attendant flow properties, to increase reverse and manoeuvring thrust. Other enhancements promise benefits in durability, service life and maintainability. Interceptors and associated control
systems can be fitted on request to provide fuel-efficient steering and to optimise trim in accordance with varying loads. In common with other Ultra Dynamics’
waterjets, the UJ525 is constructed in marine-grade aluminium alloy, with stainless steel employed for the impeller, housing, shaſts and operating cylinders for the steering and reverse functions. Te new model can be configured for the complete
range of proprietary UltraJet control systems, including JetMaster joystick control. This offers features previously only available on more expensive systems, including integration of diesel engine, throttle and waterjet management functions into a single intuitive control arrangement. It also facilitates interfacing with autopilots. Widening market receptivity to the
range as regards high-performance vessel applications was borne out by 2009 references which included installations in Damen’s new high-speed Stan Patrol 1204-class craft, triple UJ377 waterjets in Oslo City’s fire department boat, twin UJ410s in Royal Netherlands Navy landing craſt, and UJ575s in the first of the new 20m catamaran class from Isle of Wight builder South Boats Special Projects. South Boats’ production programme
encompasses the rapid development of the wind farm support vessel (WFSV) fleet controlled by Turbine Transfers, part of the Anglesey-based Holyhead Towing group. Ultra Dynamics’ waterjets figure prominently in this growing sector. Although only established in 2008,
Turbine Transfers’ fleet of purpose-built, catamaran WFSVs had grown to 10 vessels in the 12m-20m range by June 2010. A further 18m craſt was scheduled for July handover, with two further vessels due in December, to take fleet strength to 13. Te current orderbook is such that Turbine Transfers expects to have 20 catamarans in service by the end of 2011. All are powered by twin diesel engines
driving gearboxes, coupled to twin UltraJet propulsion systems. Te package confers a fast sprint capability as well as fast cruising speed, with the requisite high degree of manoeuvrability and high thrust essential
for operation at wind farms in difficult sea conditions. Turbine Transfers’ vessels are currently deployed in waters off the UK, Belgium, Germany and Denmark. Following what the company describes
as its most successful year for the waterjet business, Swedish producer Marine Jet Power (MJP) is pursuing further expansion in the world market, with a focus on naval and agency vessel applications. While the suitability of such propulsors to vessels engaged in patrol, surveillance, anti-smuggling and peacekeeping operations continues to generate fresh orders, the landing craſt sector also holds new promise. In this segment of the market, heavy-duty, all-stainless steel MJP waterjets have been nominated for projects in Spain, France and the UK. Te Swedish firm cites the installations
in 12 vessels built for Spain as indicative of product performance. The jets are exposed to extreme conditions when approaching and taking the beach, with only a few feet of water below the hull aſt. Te amount of material, sand, stones, dirt and rubbish pumped through the jets is enormous. Despite such treatment, the equipment has shown its ability to remain in operation for lengthy periods without servicing, a characteristic attributed to the wear and corrosion resistance properties of the duplex stainless steel alloys used in the jets’ construction. Experience with the Spanish military references had a signal bearing on the selection of MJP waterjets for governmental projects in France and the UK. In the coast guard vessel field, MJP jets
were supplied in 2009 to South Korea’s newbuild programme of 500tonne-class, 30kt cutters, following deliveries to Taiwan’s
Enhanced reverse and manoeuvring thrust properties are offered by Ultra Dynamics’ UJ525 waterjet (Credit: Ultra Dynamics).
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Ship & Boat International July/August 2010
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