There are several marine propulsion systems. This course on propulsion systems and load lines introduces you to the definition and elements of a propulsion system, which include: propellers, drive shafts, clutches and the steering gear. We will teach you about the division of tug steering and propulsion systems: power source, power transfer and control system, thrust creation and directional control mechanism. Become familiar with the characteristics of tugs and the operations of the tug’s horsepower. Learn about the application of high-speed diesel and the use of direct drive engines in deep-sea merchant marine vessels. We will cover the operations of the main propulsion slow-speed diesel engine, along with the components of a transmission system. Investigate the components of the stern tube and the constant airflow type of stern tubes. We outline the purpose of the hydrodynamic drivers and the two kinds of hydrodynamic drivers. We will identify the driver rotating around a horizontal axis (propellers) and which driver rotates around a vertical axis (Voith-Schneider cycloidal).

This course then demonstrates the features, operations, working principles and designs of propellers. Study the historical background, structure and functions of propulsion nozzles and the steerable nozzle type. Recognise rudders’ functions and constructional features, including rudder stock, rudder post, pintle, rudder carrier and gudgeons. Learn about the balanced, unbalanced and semi-balanced rudders, along with essential factors to consider when inspecting a rudder during drydock. We will also compare the characteristics of propeller blades from 3, 4 and 5 and the classification of blades based on the solid fixed-pitch and constructional-pitch propellers. We will guide you in distinguishing the operations of the right-handed and left-handed propellers. We define terms related to propellers and the formulas for propeller pitch, propeller slip, efficiency and pitch ratio. We will use formulas to calculate the propeller’s pitch by measuring drydock, disc area, blade area ratio, wake and the true slope. This course will then teach you about the construction and operations of a bow thruster, along with the process of pitch control by thruster blades.

The Voith-Schneider Propeller (VSP) is a unique propulsion system. This course will help you become familiar with this system’s functions, mechanisms and working principles. You will analyse the controls in the Voith-Schneider tractor tugs before studying the operations and mechanisms of the Azimuthing propulsion drives and its functions in stern-drive tugs. We will also discuss the salient features of the International Articles of the Consolidated Load Line Convention of 2018. Explore the purpose of the ship’s load line, the deck line, freeboard and buoyancy and scrutinise the margin line, forward and aft perpendicular, sub-divisional load line, the factor of sub-division, sheer and bow height. Learn the characteristics and differences between ‘type B’ and ‘type B‘ ships, as well as the concept of a ship’s ‘tonnage’. This course will significantly appeal to students, researchers and those interested in propulsion systems and load lines. So register for this course and start today.