Preventative maintenance key to functionality
ZF Marine is now offering a preventative maintenance service for thrusters with the advice that preventive maintenance can go a long way towards delaying or even avoiding the need to call on unscheduled repair capabilities.
The company recommends that marine operators undertake visual checks and checks of oil levels daily or prior to every use; and an annual health check that includes external corrosion, marine growth, grease and seals, the condition of the anode and any possible leaks. It also suggests oil sampling; replacement of prop seals and a professional internal inspection of gears a minimum of every 5 years or 25,000 hours; and a major overhaul of the thruster every 10 years or 50,000 hours.
In the event of damage, faults and breakdowns, ZF Marine stated having a well-planned onsite marine service and repair strategy will help ensure the impact of vessel downtime is reduced significantly. Its advice includes carrying out overhaul and repair operations to the original manufacturer’s specifications; carrying sufficient quantities and reserves of spares; ensuring the use of only genuine parts; and using only authorised/accredited service repairers.
Rose overhaul
In 2015, ZF Marine successfully completed an overhaul of a Deck Mounted ZF 3000 DU thruster fitted to the Rose of Lorne, the largest barge of its type in Europe, situated at Glensander Quarry in Scotland where it is used to haul aggregate equipment and supplies.
Due to the size and age, issues included corrosion, cleaning and disassembly. ZF’s service included delivery and arranging freight for parts, crane and assembly, welding, quality testing and off-highway/driveline.
ZF Marine was subsequently used for the overhaul of the vessel’s second thruster unit.
By Rebecca Jeffrey
