Damen Develops Nozzle Spinning Method

Damen Marine Components (DMC) has developed a pioneering nozzle production method based on a single weld seam on the inner side of the nozzle. This makes the process much more efficient and environmentally friendly. The new Nozzle Spinning Machine can deliver nozzles up to 4.5 m at short notice.
Based in Hardinxveld in the Netherlands and part of the Damen Shipyards Group, DMC has invested in new spinning machinery for its facility in Gdansk, Poland.
“The new spinning machinery, developed in the past two years, makes the production of nozzles much easier and gives an improved end product, because there is only a single weld seam on the inner side of the nozzle,” said Steef Staal, DMC Managing Director. “Manufacturing the complete inside of a nozzle in one go is very special. This machine can produce any nozzle profile in every diameter and without the need for auxiliary tools.”
The spinning machine can produce nozzles with an inside diameter ranging from 1,000 mm to 4.5 m. Using a completely automated system, the machine can handle stainless steel, duplex, steel and special steel materials. The new machine is also able to handle the demand for shorter delivery times, emphasizes Staal.
“Uncertainty in the market often means that companies order equipment at the very last minute, and this means that lead times and delivery times are growing shorter. With this machine, we adapt to that process.”
Propeller nozzles are a sustainable product by definition, because they significantly reduce fuel consumption and thus cut down on CO² emissions. However, the new production method is even more environmentally friendly.
“Because there is less welding and grinding, this method saves energy and emissions,” said Staal. “In addition, the new machinery saves production time and enhances our stable price/quality ratio, making it more cost efficient.”