Kort Propulsion offers complete packages of propulsion and manoeuvring devices to the marine industry. Known for pioneering the Kort Nozzle in the 1930s, the company has impacted the sector significantly. Managing Director Dave Parsons discussed product developments and future expansion, in conversation with Antonia Cole.
Next year will be Kort Propulsion’s 90th year in operation. Established in 1935, the company has evolved alongside the industry, garnering a wealth of experience.
“There are not many companies that have managed to reach this milestone,” said Managing Director Dave Parsons.
“This shows the strength and resilience of Kort Propulsion. We’ve been around for a long time, and we plan to keep operating successfully for the next 90 years. We are developing a new logo to celebrate
this milestone that will launch on our anniversary.”
The company is based in Erith, Kent, with production facilities in Dartmouth, Devon, as well as Romania. Designing and supplying nozzles, propellers, conventional and high-lift rudders, bearings, shafting, steering, and stern gear, the company offers a single-source package to clients including engine cooling with RW Ferstrum and Weka Marine supplying keel and box coolers.
Kort Propulsion has strong brand awareness and customers all around the world, from the UK to Australia. Primarily serving the coastal shipping, offshore, towage, inland waterway, dredging, fishing and ROV sectors, the company provides specialised products to suit a range of specifications.
“When I first started travelling around the world for Kort Propulsion, I saw the impact we had already achieved internationally,” revealed Mr Parsons. “We supply unique
products that optimise operations for clients and our team of experts are able to advise customers on choosing particular systems that best suit each vessel. This combination of high-quality products and service is what has given us our positive reputation for so long”
Optimising performance
Over the years, Kort Propulsion has increased its portfolio of nozzles to suit a wide range of applications. From 100mm diameter propellers for an ROV thruster to5,300mm and above for commercial vessels, the company
offers specialised solutions for various vessel types.
Fishing, tugboats, workboats, coasters, inland waterways craft, bulk carriers and other vessels can all benefit from significant improvements with the Kort Nozzle. Optimising performance, the Kort Nozzle provides ships with increased efficiency and power.
“Over the last five years, we’ve also introduced a new range of supporting products,” explained Mr Parsons. “We have triple rudders, flap rudders and steering nozzles. These can all be used alongside our other products to create tailored systems that improve the steering, handling and manoeuvring of vessels.”
Additionally, Kort Propulsion has expanded production facilities and introduced a range of Kort thrusters and Hercules hatches. All models of the thrusters can suit a range of system operating pressures, as well as being integrated with either closed or open loop hydraulic systems.
The Hercules hatches, Bureau Veritas type approved, are designed to be strong, durable, watertight and safe. Corrosion-resistant marine grade aluminium makes up the cover and flange ring, while the bushes and bearings fitted to the hatch are made from hard-wearing Ertalyte. Finally, the underside of the cover has a fuel- and chemical-resistant neo -
prene sealing ring to ensure the resilience of the hatch.
Kort Propulsion’s leading product is the Kort Nozzle, Mr Parsons added: “Our Kort Nozzle is known for its design and functionality around the world, but now we’ve got a range of other equipment to support it. We have built up a portfolio of high-quality products that all work together to create efficient systems. Supplying a complete propulsion package along with engine cooling from RW Fernstrum and Weka Marine.”
Specialised designs
The company is currently working on a variety of significant projects. With the capacity to work on anything from an 85m
mega yacht to small fishing boats, Kort Propulsion is able to provide solutions to any type of vessel. Despite the size of the project, the company’s service and support remain at the same high standard.
Kort Propulsion offers consultancy services in order to aid shipyards in designing the best system for a ship. Owners are able to identify their needs in terms of power, propulsion and speed, then Kort Propulsion calculates how to achieve these set objectives. The company’s skilled and experienced team creates effective solutions for each client requirement.
“We work hard to not only meet, but exceed the expectations of our customers,” commented Mr Parsons. “For example, we developed our Kort KP system for clients in the fishing industry. This allows owners to use less power whilst working with their existing fishing gear, seeing fuel consumption savings of up to 25 or 30 per cent.”
Systems from Kort Propulsion make ship propellers highly efficient, minimising energy loss and increasing durability. The company provides these solutions from a single source, making the process smoother and more efficient for customers.
Kort Propulsion offers these systems to a global market, with customers in the UK, Holland, Norway, France and many other countries. The company has aligned itself with international leaders, due to its strong brand identity.
“I did a presentation for a group of naval architects in India recently,” continued Mr Parsons. “They all told me that they had studied about Kort Nozzles during their maritime course, which was really fantastic to hear. It just shows our reputation within the industry for quality and innovation. Our name is worldwide and is continuing to grow.”
Kort experience
The next five years will see Kort Propulsion’s targets for further development actualised. With plans for a new facility to be launched in 2025, the company hopes to expand and improve capacity.
“We have grown consistently over the years and I expect to see this continue,” said Mr Parsons. “I learnt a lot about growing the company from my father, Norman Parsons. He told me how important it is to build good relationships across the industry.
“I watched him attend exhibitions, knowing and interacting with everybody. It showed me that the marine sector is all about relationships and I’ve continued this as I’ve taken over the company. We now have partners all over the world, which has helped us grow massively.”
By maintaining long-term relationships with key suppliers, Kort Propulsion is able to deliver reliable products and services. Both Tor Marine and Nogva Heimdal Propulsion have played a significant role in Kort Propulsion’s growth and success. Through trust, open communication and high-quality products, these relationships are allowed to thrive.
“I want to continue on my family’s legacy within this company for as long as possible,” continued Mr Parsons, in conclusion. “I enjoy meeting people from all around the world and giving them the signature Kort experience. From the first meeting to commissioning, we offer quality and complete service. I want to maintain this long into the future.” n
