Water Lubricated Stern Tube Bearing (EVR): Proven Technology for Smooth and Quiet Operations

Wildon Engineering, trading as Japan Marine Engineering, provides advanced water-lubricated Stern Tube bearing solutions for smooth marine operations.

Operators are seeking reliable, efficient, and environmentally responsible solutions for vessel propulsion systems. The water-lubricated Stern Tube bearing offers a marine-grade alternative to traditional oil-lubricated systems. Delivering smooth operation, quiet performance, and long-lasting durability, it is now the preferred choice for shipbuilders, fleet operators, and naval architects worldwide.

What Is a Stern Tube Bearing?

A stern tube bearing is a critical component of a vessel’s propulsion system. It supports the propeller shaft as it passes through the stern tube, ensuring smooth rotation and reducing friction between moving parts. This stability is essential for maintaining propulsion efficiency and protecting the shaft from wear and misalignment.

Traditionally, these bearings were lubricated with oil, which provided effective performance but came with environmental and maintenance concerns. Advances in engineering, particularly from industry leaders like KEMEL, have made water-lubricated bearings a superior alternative, providing operators with sustainable, high-performance solutions.

Oil vs. Water Lubrication: A Comparative Snapshot

For decades, oil-lubricated bearings were the standard in marine operations, valued for their durability and load-bearing capabilities. However, they carry significant risks, including oil leaks that contribute to marine pollution, complex maintenance requirements, and ongoing lubricant costs.

By contrast, water-lubricated Stern Tube bearings use seawater or fresh water as the lubricating medium, eliminating the need for oil. This solution minimises environmental risks, lowers maintenance needs, and meets global pollution standards, making water-lubricated systems the smart choice.

Key Features That Set EVR Apart

The EVR (Elastomeric Vibration-Resistant) water-lubricated Stern Tube bearing, engineered by KEMEL, delivers advanced, high-performance propulsion for diverse vessels.

•  Eco-Friendly – By using water instead of oil, EVR bearings completely eliminate the risk of oil pollution. This environmentally responsible design supports compliance with international marine regulations, including MARPOL standards.

•  Vibration & Noise Reduction – The elastomeric lining of the EVR bearing dampens vibrations and minimises noise. This ensures quieter operations, improving crew comfort and reducing noise pollution in sensitive marine environments.

•  Durability & Resistance – EVR bearings are designed for exceptional durability, with materials that resist abrasion, wear, and high-impact loads. This results in longer operational lifespans and reduced replacement frequency, even in challenging marine conditions.

•  Self-Alignment Capability – The bearing’s flexible design allows for self-alignment, accommodating minor shaft misalignments. This feature reduces stress on the shaft and bearing, ensuring smoother operations and less mechanical wear over time.

•  Enhanced Water Flow & Cooling – Grooved internal surfaces optimise water circulation, improving lubrication and cooling efficiency. This feature enhances operational reliability and extends bearing life under varying load conditions.

•  Anti-Corrosion Protection – Constructed from corrosion-resistant materials, the EVR bearing provides superior protection against shaft corrosion and material degradation, ensuring consistent performance throughout its service life.

Wildon Engineering – Your Authorised Distributor for KEMEL Bearings

Wildon Engineering, trading as Japan Marine Engineering, proudly supplies KEMEL’s advanced water-lubricated Stern Tube bearing technology across Australia and New Zealand. KEMEL, a division of Eagle Industry Co., Ltd., is the global leader in marine seals and bearings, renowned for innovation, quality, and environmental responsibility. This future-ready bearing delivers eco-friendly performance, noise reduction, and exceptional durability, setting a new standard for efficient and sustainable marine propulsion.

Contact us today to learn how our solutions can optimise your vessel’s performance and compliance.

Related Blog Article: Water-Lubricated Stern Tube Bearings Explained: How EVR Technology Supports Marine Propulsion

Optimized by NetwizardSEO.com.au