Becker Marine Systems KSR (King Support Rudder)

• Make: Becker Marine Systems
• Model code: KSR (King Support Rudder)
• Type of rudder: Full spade

In order to avoid the disadvantages of conventional rudders Becker has developed the KSR (King Support Rudder). With this solution Becker is able to build full spade rudders of unlimited size and slim profile thickness. With this arrangement, the rudder trunk is extended into the rudder blade so that the lower neck bearing is positioned as close as possible to the centre of force acting on the rudder. Due to the shorter lever arm, stresses and bending moments inthe rudder stock and trunk are significantly reduced. The reaction forces in the neck and carrier bearings are much smaller, making it a very rigid rudder. KSR technology is the state-of-the-art solution for rudders of unlimited size, and with only one lower bearing it provides lower maintenance than comparable semi-spade rudders. Becker Rudders do not need any castings such as a rudder horn with a gap to the blade that may cause cavitation problems and is more difficult to install in the ship’s hull structure. Furthermore, a KSR rudder offers a larger active steering rudder area and is decreasing the course-keeping angles. It also can be deflected to higher rudder angles to provide highly efficient manoeuvrability. Due to reduced forces with the KSR support, the rudder profile can be designed to be more slender and thus improve efficiency.