A new generation of BlueSpin
Founded in 2020 on the shores of the Arcachon basin in the south of France, BlueNav has developed a range of medium-power thrusters for electric motorization or hybridization of boats from 8 to 15 meters. Called BlueSpin, BlueNav's azimuth and retractable thrusters use permanent magnet technology and fixed shaftless blades.
At the start of 2024, the electric motor manufacturer announces a new version of its BlueSpins, with revised blade geometry and nozzle inlet and outlet crowns. The new, smoother shapes are inspired by whale fins. The manufacturer reports a gain in torque and a reduction in drag, resulting in better overall efficiency for its BlueSpins.
Enhancement at no extra cost
Biomimicry is not a new idea, and neither is taking inspiration from whales. We've already seen rudders adopt the asperities of a whale's fin to enhance performance, but this has remained confidential, as the manufacture of large parts with complex geometry is costly. Hugo de Malherbe, BlueNav's Business Development Manager, explains that this is not a stumbling block for BlueNav: "We have developed a mold specifically for the shape of our blades. This mold is then filled with resin, which is cast under vacuum, so there's no real extra cost compared with a conventional blade in our sizes. Another advantage of developing the Whale Design is that we'll be able to offer it to our existing customers, as a retrofit to their BlueSpin, to boost performance."
BlueNav has equipped various boats since its launch in 2020, including a partnership with De Antonio for its D28 Formentor hybrid.
