Keeping the Maritime Industry Moving: Howcroft Group's Bearing, Coupling & Gearbox Solutions
Reliable Power for the High Seas
Howcroft understands that the shipping and maritime sectors demand components that can withstand the harshest of conditions.
At Howcroft Group, we provide a comprehensive range of high-performance bearings and gearboxes designed to ensure the reliability and efficiency of your vessels and equipment.
In maritime shipping, bearings are critical components, especially for marine propulsion systems, supporting rotating shafts and loads, ensuring smooth vessel operation and withstanding harsh conditions. They come in various types, including journal, tilt pad, and thrust bearings, and are designed for specific applications like stern tube bearings and propeller shafts.
Journal Bearings:
These bearings support rotating shafts and are available in fixed geometry or tilt pad designs.
Fixed Geometry: Can be split or solid, with or without thrust faces, and offer specialized bore profiles for better shaft control.
Tilt Pad: Designed for optimum performance with features like pad arc, pivot offset, and bearing clearance.
Split Roller Bearings:
These are effective for hard-to-reach locations like driveshafts, enabling quick bearing replacement.
Tilt Pad Thrust Bearings:
These bearings support axial loads and come in self-equalizing or non-equalizing designs.
Stern Tube Bearings:
Specifically designed for the stern tube, which is the passage through which the propeller shaft extends from the ship's hull.
Line Shaft Bearings:
Support the propeller shaft and are crucial for smooth and efficient propulsion.
Marine Gearbox Internals:
Bearings are essential for the smooth and reliable operation of marine gearboxes.
Thrust Blocks:
These bearings are designed to take the axial load of the propeller shaft.
Marine Propulsion Motor and Generator Bearings:
These bearings support the rotating parts of the marine propulsion system.
Composite Materials:
Synthetic composite bearings are used in shipbuilding for rudders, water-lubricated stern tube bearings, and other applications.
Solid Lubricants:
These bearings incorporate solid lubricants for dry running to ensure outstanding wear life.
Corrosion Resistance:
Marine bearings must be resistant to corrosion, especially in seawater environments.
Load Capacity:
Bearings need to have sufficient tensile strength and load-bearing capacity to withstand the harsh conditions of marine applications.
Lubrication:
Some bearings are designed to be fully self-contained and do not require external oil lubrication systems.
Space Utilisation:
Compact designs are important for space-limited marine settings.
Applications:
Marine Propulsion Systems: Bearings are essential for the smooth and efficient operation of marine propulsion systems.
Rudders: Composite bearings are used in shipbuilding for rudders.
Propeller Shafts: Line shaft bearings and thrust blocks support the propeller shaft.
Marine Engines and Generators: Bearings are used in marine engines and generators.
Gearboxes: Bearings are used in marine gearboxes.
Various Vessel Types: Marine bearings are used in all types of vessels, including cruise ships, mega yachts, research ships, ice breakers, container ships, and specialized vessels.
Howcroft has decades of experience in the spec and supply of Shipping & Maritime gearboxes, which require specialised handling due to their size, weight, and the potential for hazardous materials (oil).
Propulsion:
Marine reduction gears are key elements of the propulsion system, enabling the main engine and the propeller to operate at optimum speeds.
Multiple-Engine Ships:
Some gearboxes are designed for multiple-input/single-output applications, directing the output of several diesel engines or electric motors to a propeller.
Offshore Applications:
Gearboxes are used in jack-up systems, swing drives for cranes, and winch drives for lifting heavy components.
In shipping and maritime applications, couplings are essential for connecting various components, including propeller shafts, engines, and hose systems, ensuring reliable power transmission and safety.
They come in various types, including rigid, flexible, and breakaway couplings, each serving specific purposes.
Rigid Couplings:
These provide a solid, high-precision connection between two shafts, ensuring precise alignment and high torque transfer.
Flexible Couplings:
These allow for some misalignment between shafts while still transmitting power, often used in applications where vibrations or shocks are present.
Breakaway Couplings:
These are designed to separate under a predetermined load, preventing damage to equipment or hoses in situations like tanker breakouts or extreme pressure surges.
Shaft Couplings:
These are used to connect sections of a propeller shaft, ensuring smooth and reliable power transmission.
Fluid Couplings:
These use a fluid to transmit power, allowing for smooth engine startup and vibration damping.
Quick Couplings:
These are designed for safe and easy connection and disconnection of hoses, particularly for compressed air applications.
Propulsion Systems:
Couplings are crucial for connecting engines to propeller shafts, ensuring efficient power transmission.
Hose Systems:
Breakaway couplings are used in ship-to-ship transfer and ship-to-offshore platform applications to prevent hose rupture or damage in case of unexpected events.
Mooring and Docking:
Couplings play a vital role in connecting vessels to mooring systems or loading arms, ensuring safe and efficient operations.
Emergency Propulsion:
Certain couplings, like those used in emergency propulsion systems, allow for a backup power source to take over in case of main engine failure.
Sluice Gate Drives:
Couplings are used in sluice gate drives to prevent damage to the gate and drive system during operation.
Specific Application:
The type of coupling used will depend on the specific application and the requirements of the vessel or system.
Howcroft Group - Your Trusted Partner for Marine Power:
Professional Tools:
From engine repair tools to diagnostic equipment, we have the tools you need for any job.
Safety & PPE:
Protect your team with our selection of safety gear, including gloves, eyewear, and workwear.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Keep your vessel and workspace clean, organised and maintained with the Howcroft range of heavy-duty wipes, cleaning products and industrial paint supplies.
Drive Belts & Components:
Ensure reliable performance with our range of high-quality drive belts and automotive components.
Specialist Equipment:
Discover our full range of automotive products designed to meet your specific needs.
Consumables:
A vast range of workshop consumables including everything from zinc paint, electrical products, trim clips, drill bits, polishing accessories and much more.
Specialist Vessel Maintenance: High-Quality Supplies for Maritime Professionals
Our selection includes everything from essential cleaning and corrosion control products to specialised tools and equipment for engine and machinery maintenance. We partner with leading manufacturers to ensure you receive only the most reliable and durable supplies.
Why Choose Howcroft Group for Your Maritime & MRO Needs?
Industry Expertise:
We understand the unique challenges and stringent requirements of the automotive sector.
Quality Assurance:
Our products meet or exceed industry standards, ensuring reliability and safety.
Streamlined Procurement:
Simplify your supply chain with a single source for all your MRO needs.
Timely Delivery:
Minimise downtime with our efficient logistics and on-time delivery.
Dedicated Support:
Our knowledgeable team is available to provide expert advice and assistance throughout your project.
Partner with Howcroft Group for Shipping & Maritime Excellence
We're committed to helping you achieve operational excellence, enhance safety, and reduce costs. Contact us today to discuss your MRO requirements and discover how we can support your success in your Vessel.