VSP top speed?

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[The Ferry Man]

Hi

Wondered if anyone here knew what sort of maximum speed you can get from VSPs (Voith Schnieder Propulsion ala Red Eagle)

All the ferries I know (OK Wightlink and Red Funnel) sem to only go about 14 knots - is that the fastest VSPs can go at?

Many Thanks,

TFM

[McGherkin]

I doubt it, but I guess if you want to go faster it's time for props and jets.

I guess you are limited by the breaking strain of the VSP blades, but you must be able to go fairly fast before they break.

[mvsmith]

Hi TFM,

Most applications of VSPs are on large vessels like ferries, or on tugs, where high speed is not as important as the maneuverability. Large tugs for tanker escort have maximum speeds similar to the speeds expected for tankers in those waters.
R/V Melville and R/V Knorr had top speeds of about 14 kt when they were fitted with VSPs.
However, smaller vessels can be driven at higher speeds. German minesweepers of WWII were able to reach 23 kt.

Regards,
Marty

[The Ferry Man]

Hi, Thanks very much for the info

So could you get modern ferries with VSP to go slightly faster? Is there a reason the Dover ferries, for instance, use Conventional props and rudders and not a VSP Set-up?