SRV80 12 V retractable bow thruster, 80 kg thrust

Designed for sailboats 10 to 15 meters (35–48 feet), the Sleipner SRV80/185T-12V retractable bow thruster provides a discreet and high-performance maneuvering solution. This system delivers 80 kg of thrust at 10.5V, reaching 96 kg at 12V, and operates on a 12V electrical system. Its design allows full retraction into the hull, eliminating drag and preserving the vessel’s hydrodynamic profile.

Performance and integrated technologies

The SRV80/185T-12V is equipped with a 4.4 kW (6 hp) motor and uses double five-blade skewed propellers (Q-PROP™ technology) for up to 75% noise reduction in controlled test conditions. The motor duty cycle is S2 (2–3 minutes at 20°C). The tunnel diameter is 185 mm. The S-Link™ control system, based on the CAN protocol, ensures smooth communication between Sleipner equipment aboard, with compact, watertight, color-coded connectors for precise installation.

Advanced features and safety

This thruster integrates Sleipner’s Intelligent Power Control (IPC), which minimizes delay between direction changes to reduce mechanical wear and monitors solenoid operation, with automatic shutdown in case of blockage. Overheat protection stops the system if internal temperatures rise, preventing damage. Galvanic isolation separates immersed components from the vessel’s system to prevent corrosion. The system also features gravity-fed lubrication from a separate oil reservoir above the waterline, ensuring effective sealing and easy oil changes. The gearbox lubrication is sealed for life with a mechanical seal to prevent water intrusion. A flexible coupling protects the transmission by compensating for minor misalignments between the motor and gearbox shaft.

Installation and flexibility

Weighing 31 kg, the Sleipner SRV80/185T-12V thruster is designed for installation using a backing flange, ensuring a robust mount. Its compact design, including optimized layout, makes it suitable for sailboats with tight height constraints. The electric motor can be rotated 90 degrees on its bracket to adapt to various installation configurations, both at the bow and stern.