IMTRA introduces Sleipner Electric Vector Fins “Any Speed” Stabilizers
by IMTRA 20 Oct 2023 06:31 BST
IMTRA, the leading manufacturer and importer of quality solutions and products for the marine, energy and transportation markets, announced today the introduction of the new Sleipner Electric Vector FinsTM any speed stabilization system. Revolutionizing stabilization for yachts, the system incorporates new electric actuators combined with a revolutionary new fin design, the Vector3 Fins, which is a further development of the unique Vector Fins and second generation VFS Vector Fins designs currently used with hydraulic actuators.
Offering unique benefits compared to others, the Sleipner electric actuators provide a level of reliability none can match and a solution to the most common problem with electric actuators: structure-borne noise. Developed specifically for the efficiency of the Vector3 Fins, the Sleipner electric actuators are based on a frameless, brushless, torque motor built directly into the actuator base, which allows it to maintain high torque over an extended time. The system uses a Harmonic Drive® strain wave gear system for unprecedented reliability, as well as a patented noise reduction system which reduces about 92% of structure-borne noise. The strain wave gear was used on the Mars Rovers and aircraft landing gear where failure is simply not an option.
Built on the successful, revolutionary Vector Fins, the Vector3 Fins design takes the concept several steps further. It is up to 110% more energy efficient than conventional flat fins and provides up to 90% increase in stabilizing force while reducing sway and yaw up to 60% over conventional flat fins. In addition, the Vector3 Fins have a 50% better lift-to-drag ratio compared to the original Vector Fins and it virtually eliminates "anchor walk", as the actuators now allow the fins to rotate 180 degrees. The Sleipner Vector3 Fins are also an improvement over gyros, as the fins provide superior all-around stabilization, vastly superior performance when under way - especially in following seas and crosswinds - and excellent at-anchor performance without the high-maintenance cost and weight of gyros.
"The Sleipner Vector Fins changed the game with a level of performance not previously seen in fin stabilization," said Prentice Weathers, Stabilization Product Manager, IMTRA. "Now, the new electric actuators and Vector3 Fins take stabilization to a whole new level with a vastly superior stabilizer system compared to all others and allows us to offer any speed stabilization to smaller vessels than was previously possible. Boat builders now have a wide array of Vector Fins stabilizer options, and those looking to refit their boats with stabilizers, or replace their 'underway only' fins, now have the option for either hydraulic or electric actuators. As an added benefit, all Sleipner stabilizers can now be controlled on modern MFD's as well via the new SDI-1 interface."
The Sleipner Electric Vector Fins are designed for all motor yachts from 45- to 150-feet and will be available starting in early 2024.
For information on IMTRA and its entire product line, please call 508-995-7000 or visit www.imtra.com.