Conversions

A vessel’s operating conditions often change over its service life. New trading patterns, stricter environmental requirements, and increased demands for energy efficiency mean that a rudder or propulsion system that functioned well at the time of delivery is not always the optimal solution many years later. Becker Marine Systems offersconversions and upgrades that improve maneuverability, energy efficiency, and operational reliability for both Becker systems and equipment from other manufacturers. By combining hydrodynamic analysis, CFD simulations, engineering design, and practical experience, Becker develops solutions tailored to each vessel’s operational profile and requirements.

The goal is not to replace more than is necessary, but to identify the measures that provide the greatest technical and economic benefits over the vessel’s remaining service life. In many cases, a targeted upgrade can reduce fuel consumption, improve maneuverability, and at the same time extend the service life of existing systems.

What types of retrofits does Becker offer?

Becker offers a wide range of retrofits and modernizations, including:

• Upgrading existing rudder systems
• Conversion to Becker Flap Rudder
• Installation of Becker Twist rudders
• Retrofitting of the Becker Mewis Duct®
• Modernization of steering gear
• Hydrodynamic optimization of rudders and propellers
• Adaptations for new operating conditions or regulatory requirements

Each project is based on the vessel’s design, operational profile, and operational goals. By combining different solutions, Becker can often create a comprehensive solution that delivers greater results than a single upgrade.

When is a refit the right choice?

A retrofit or upgrade can be a cost-effective alternative when:

• fuel consumption needs to be reduced
• maneuverability needs to be improved
• cavitation or vibrations need to be reduced
• the vessel’s operational profile has changed
• existing components are nearing the end of their service life
• A planned dry-docking provides an opportunity to carry out a modernization

In many cases, a targeted retrofit can yield significant improvements without requiring the replacement of the entire rudder or propulsion system.

Becker’s Approach

Every retrofit project begins with a technical evaluation in which Becker analyzes the vessel’s hull form, propeller, rudder, operational profile, and operational conditions. A proposal for action is then developed, focusing on hydrodynamic performance, feasibility, and long-term operational economy.

If necessary, the project also includes design, manufacturing, installation, commissioning, and technical follow-up. Thanks to Becker’s extensive experience with both new construction and retrofits, the solutions can be integrated with existing systems in an efficient and reliable manner.

Why choose Becker for retrofits?

Becker combines hydrodynamic expertise with practical experience from retrofit projects around the world. The company works with both Becker systems and equipment from other manufacturers and can therefore recommend the solution that provides the greatest benefit for each individual vessel.

The result is often improved maneuverability, lower fuel consumption, reduced cavitation and vibration, and lower lifecycle costs—without the need to replace major parts of the existing system.

Benefits of Becker Conversions

• Hydrodynamically optimized retrofits.
• Solutions for both Becker systems and other brands.
• Improved maneuverability.
• Potential for lower fuel consumption.
• Reduced cavitation and vibration.
• Design, installation, and commissioning from a single supplier.
• Customized solutions for each vessel and operating profile.

Examples of retrofit projects

Common conversions include, for example:

• Retrofit to Becker Flaproder.
• Installation of Becker Mewis Duct®.
• Upgrading of existing rudder systems.
• Modernization of steering gear.
• Hydrodynamic optimization during scheduled dry-docking.
• Energy efficiency improvements for older ships.