German maritime propulsion specialist Schottel GmbH has modernised its manufacturing operations with the installation of a roller conveyor shot-blast machine from Rösler. Integrated directly into the company’s steel sheet processing line at its Dörth facility, the RRB 22/5 system has improved efficiency, automation and process reliability.

Founded in 1921, Schottel is a global developer and manufacturer of ship propulsion and manoeuvring systems, offering outputs from 50 to 30,000 kW. As part of an ongoing modernisation programme, the company replaced manual blast room operations with a continuous-flow automated system capable of handling a wide range of flame-cut steel components and plates.

A key requirement was achieving a surface roughness depth of at least Rz 70 µm to ensure optimal adhesion of anti-corrosion coatings used in harsh maritime environments. Rösler developed a bespoke solution based on its standard RRB 22/5 platform, enabling partially automated processing of steel plates up to 5 m long.

The machine incorporates six 15 kW Gamma 400G turbines, delivering high blasting performance with lower energy consumption. Compared with conventional turbine designs, the Y-shaped throwing blades increase blasting efficiency by up to 20% while extending wear life, reports Rösler. A quick-change blade system also minimises maintenance downtime.

Before final approval, Schottel conducted extensive trials using representative workpieces at an existing Rösler customer site operating a near-identical system. Tests confirmed the required surface finish and coating adhesion performance while demonstrating lower wear rates and reduced operational costs.

“The results of the blast trials and the positive feedback from the reference customer absolutely convinced us that the RRB 22/5 meets all our quality demands,” says Frank Steinert, manufacturing manager at Schottel.

More information www.rosler.com