Welcome to Kort Propulsion Co Ltd

As any naval architect or vessel operator knows, a propulsion system which is matched to complement a vessel's hull design will maximise this vessel's performance and manoeuvrability. Such an approach does not apply to just new builds, as tailoring a propulsion package for a vessel upgrade or conversion will also maximise the craft's suitability for its intended duties.

With a wide variety of propulsion systems now available, having the expertise to know what single systems or combination of systems will best suit a particular vessel is becoming an increasingly important tool in the specification process.

Kort Propulsion was originally founded in 1935 for the specific purpose of producing Kort Nozzles under licence for the United Kingdom and British Commonwealth markets.

In 1939, there was an obvious break with the German licenser. This allowed Kort to conduct its own development programme and produce its own designs in the UK. Although co-operation with Ludwig Kort recommenced in 1945, the six years of successful stand-alone activity inevitably resulted in the company parting with the German founder in the late 1940's.

At that time, Kort Propulsion was owned by R & H Green and Silley Weir, a ship repair company based mainly on the River Thames and in Falmouth. During this period, a considerable portion of Kort Propulsion's time was spent in supporting the ship repair activities of its parent.

As such, almost all employees, including current Owner, Norman Parsons and colleague Malcolm Breeze, had training and experience in either marine engineering or naval architecture. They have worked together since 1970.

Green and Silley Weir were subsequently taken over by P&O, and Kort Propulsion was then put under the shipping company's direct control.

This situation remained until a management buyout from P&O in 1977.

In 1980, Kort acquired hydraulic fastener specialist Pilgrim Engineering Developments Ltd.

Relationships and contacts with larger propeller manufacturers and merchant shipbuilders were developed, however Kort sold this company in 1986.

In October 1994 Kort joined forces with Causeway Machinery Ltd, a company with roots in the supply of azimuthing propulsion units and associated marine equipment such as engine cooling systems, silencers, tank gauging systems, marine pumps, deck machinery and integrated hydraulic systems.

As both companies were so closely related these products were taken into the Kort portfolio in 2004 and Causeway Machinery ceased trading.

Customised Packages

As a number of other companies now produce their own propeller nozzles, Kort Propulsion decided to concentrate on contacts and orders, which involved solving more unusual applications for existing products.

Managing Director, Norman Parsons' engineering and naval architectural background has

enabled the company to bring together complete packages of Kort Nozzles, propellers, conventional rudders, high lift rudders, bearings, steering gear, shafting and sterngear.

Kort have developed their own rage of tunnelthrusters and small steerable propulsion unit for powers up to 300 hp.

The propulsion related equipment promoted and distributed by Kort Propulsion includes steerable propulsion units, azimuth thrusters and transverse bow thrusters; Weka Marine box coolers and Fernstrum gridcoolers for engine cooling; Vibracon adjustable engine and machinery mounts from Machine Support BV; IHC Lagersmit's range of Supreme shaft seals and bearing systems; Deno aircompressors; MICAD Marine information systems were added in 2005.

Also, since 1993, Kort Propulsion has been the sole worldwide sales distributor of the Hercules range of flush deck hatches.

Consultancy Services

In addition to supplying customised propulsion packages, another major component of the business is the provision of consultancy services to designers, owners and builders. Kort Propulsion now provides powering and performance data calculations for new builds or existing craft, a service, which can involve open propellers as well as ducted propellers.

This ability has proven to be a particular asset for smaller shipyards and boat builders, which may not have access to their own consultancy or technical departments. Furthermore, Kort Propulsion's policy of not aligning itself with a particular propeller manufacturer supports this approach, as the company is able to order propellers and receive enquiries and orders from all the main European manufacturers.

Kort have wealth of data, often full scale trials, on both conventional and novel propulsion systems which enables us to design and supply fixed pitch propellers up to 4m in diameter or controllable pitch propellers up to 5.3m in diameter. For example, we have been involved in developing a range of small hydraulically driven bow thrust units and we have also supplied high definition propellers and impellers for high speed craft with conventional propulsion, surface piercing drives and water jets.'

With this background in the workboat industry Kort have worked with specialist designers to offer tug and workboat designs for customers around the world.

Kort provides a single source from which vessel designers, builders or operators can obtain a complete package of propulsion and manoeuvring devices with confidence.

Key Personnel