Becker Schilling rudder

The Becker Schilling Rudder is a high-lift rudder with a distinctive fishtail-shaped trailing edge designed to provide very high lateral force without a movable rudder flap. The hydrodynamic profile accelerates water flow, maximizes rudder balance, and provides effective coverage of the propeller circle. The result is a full-blade rudder with excellent course stability, high maneuverability, and low hydrodynamic drag.

Becker Schilling rudders are available for vessels of all sizes and can operate at rudder angles of up to 70° to either side. By comparison, a conventional semi-spade rudder typically operates at rudder angles of around 35°. In combination with a suitable steering gear, this enables lateral maneuvering, shimmying (lateral movement) while at anchor, and efficient maneuvering for vessels with dynamic positioning (DP). The excellent flow control at large rudder angles provides very high maneuverability while keeping drag low relative to the rudder’s size. Since the design lacks both a flap and a linkage mechanism, maintenance requirements are also lower than for comparable flap rudders. When operating on autopilot, the hydrodynamic profile results in small rudder movements—known as “rudder hunting”—which contributes to more stable course holding and reduced wear on both the steering gear and rudder bearings during longer sea voyages.

When is a Becker Schilling rudder the right choice?

A Becker Schilling rudder is an excellent choice when the highest possible maneuvering performance is desired without moving flap components. The design is particularly well-suited for vessels that need to be able to crab, maneuver alongside a pier in crosswinds, hold position, or maneuver with high precision while reversing. The robust design also makes the rudder well-suited for operation in icy conditions and other demanding environments where an open flap mechanism risks being subjected to unnecessary wear or damage.

Becker Schilling TT (Twisted Trailing Edge)

The Becker Schilling TT (Twisted Trailing Edge) is a further development of the Becker Schilling rudder, featuring a sleeker rudder blade and a twisted trailing edge. This design provides a more balanced combination of high maneuverability and improved propulsion efficiency. The high lateral force is maintained while the hydrodynamic profile is optimized for lower resistance during navigation. The Becker Schilling TT is therefore an excellent option for vessels that require the maneuvering characteristics of the Schilling rudder in port but also wish to maximize energy efficiency during normal operation.

Like other Becker rudders, the Becker Schilling TT can be supplied for both new construction and as a retrofit solution for existing vessels.