VAN DER VELDEN^® FLEX TUNNEL

Van der Velden Marine Systems has introduced an innovative new retractable tunnel, the Van der Velden^® FLEX Tunnel, specially developed for inland vessels. 
With the Van der Velden^® FLEX tunnel embedded into the vessel hull, resistance is lowered and efficiency increased.

Tunnels are commonly used on inland ships, ensuring an optimal water flow to the propellers at shallow drafts. The downside of conventional tunnels is an increase in hull resistance, a lower efficiency and consequently extra fuel consumption. Moreover, loaded inland ships sail in deeper water conditions for about 85 percent of the time, during which a tunnel is superfluous.
The Van der Velden^® FLEX tunnel is deployed when sailing in shallow waters to ensure sufficient water flow to the propellers and maintain their efficiency.

Van der Velden^® DOLPHIN XR

The Van der Velden^® FLEX Tunnel is developed to be combined and integrated with the Van der Velden® DOLPHIN XR rudder and spoiler . This complete package ensures optimal efficiency and thus considerable fuel saving.
Van der Velden developed the retractable tunnel in close cooperation with the renowned German research institute DST (Development centre for Ship Technology and transport systems).

Benefits

• Considerable fuel saving
• Less resistance
• Better manoeuvrability and velocity
• Propulsion efficiency of ca. 10%
• Increased cargo space and loading capacity
  
  

Press Release Introduction Van der Velden FLEX tunnel