Understanding Your Bow Thruster!

Understanding Your Bow Thruster in the Inland Waterways Market

Tunnel systems provide a simple cost-effective solution and can be installed at two thirds their diameter below water level.  To achieve optimum performance and reduce the risk of damage from surface debris, an immersion depth of one complete tunnel diameter is advised.  The longer your tunnel, the less efficient your bow thruster will be.

The majority of tunnel thrusters come equipped with twin propellers, offering equal thrust in both directions.  Water cannot be compressed so the amount of thrust attainable is proportional to a thruster’s tunnel or turbine diameter.

Bow thruster systems consume more power than most other onboard functions and selecting the correct power source is essential.  There are three options, Electric Power,  where a dedicated bank of high cold cranking amperage (CCA) batteries will provide an ideal source of power for smaller bow thrusters.  These systems can be run for up to three minutes continuously without over heating.  Electric-hydraulic power, an electric DC power system allows you to combine the rugged reliability and lightweight hydraulic power head to the quick and easy installation of an electric motor.  Other advantages include the ability to select a dry and well ventilated area to install the electric motor and the possibility to centre heavy components such as batteries and motor and suitable midship section of the boat.  Pure Hydraulic Power bow thrusters benefit from unlimited run times.  If there is an exisiting hydraulic system on board our boat, or if you are considering installing one, this wil provide a highly cost-effective power option.

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