Spirit of Discovery underwent dry dock
The Spirit of Discovery, a luxury cruise ship owned and operated by Saga Cruises, underwent a major dry dock refurbishment at the Lloyd Werft shipyard in Bremerhaven, Germany.
The main job what was performed on Spirit of Discovery in dry dock is damaged port side Azipod slewing bearing replaced.
What is slewing bearing?
An Azipod is a type of electric propulsion system used primarily in ships, and it consists of a propeller that is mounted on a steerable pod that can rotate 360 degrees. The Azipod pod is supported by a slewing bearing that allows the pod to rotate.
The slewing bearing is a large diameter bearing that is capable of handling heavy loads and allows the Azipod pod to rotate smoothly. It is typically made of high-strength steel and is designed to withstand the harsh marine environment, including saltwater and extreme temperatures.
The slewing bearing is a critical component of the Azipod propulsion system and must be carefully maintained and serviced to ensure reliable and efficient operation. Regular inspections and lubrication are essential to prolong the life of the slewing bearing and prevent any potential issues that could cause downtime or safety concerns.
The Spirit of Discovery is equipped with two Azipod propulsion units that provide excellent maneuverability, allowing the ship to turn on its axis and navigate through tight spaces with ease. The ship also features advanced navigation and control systems that enable precise steering and movement and such on time maintenence is necessary for the safe voyages.
