Marine propulsion research & development company, Contrapel Ltd has released details of its new propulsion system for boats – the system set to make future boats more economical, manoeuvrable, safer, stronger and better for the environment.
The high-speed propeller was invented over 170 years ago and has dominated the propulsion market ever since. Despite 60 years of development, water-jets have struggled to make significant inroads.
Shown to an enthusiastic marine industry for the first time at the recent Auckland On Water Boat Show, the Contrapel Hybrid Drive is about to change that. The system is so advanced that it carries out all the functions of both propellers and water-jets with none of the drawbacks of either.
“ The Contrapel technology is a propeller system working above the waterline. Externally it resembles a traditional water-jet, however internally the method for developing thrust has much more in common with conventional propeller systems ,” says Contrapel founder and Managing Director, Barry Davies .
Currently tested in 190mm, 270mm and 330mm diameter configurations, the Contrapel Hybrid Drive is able to suit a variety of marine propulsion applications, and will work on smaller leisure craft right through to military vessels, shipping, work boats, dredging vessels and will even work for underwater submarines.
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Press Release, October 23, 2012