Stay cool, Sail cool
Keel Coolers
These parts are manufactured by VULKAN COUPLINGS, Germany pioneers in marine drive technology.
Furtermore, VULKAN components are used in powerplant facilities or in industrial applications as well.
VULKAN production program includes following types, most available from the manufacturing site in Germany but some common ones are also available from our warehouse in Moschato:
5000 Series Aluminium
The aluminium GRIDCOOLER – Keel cooler is designed specifically for unpainted aluminium hull applications in fresh or seawater environments. 5000 series aluminium alloy was selected based on its compatibility with unpainted aluminium hulls and saltwater corrosion resistance. The alloy compatibility between the hull and keel cooler prevents pitting and avoids potential damage from interacting metals.
Technology
Fernstrum has continually evolved the GRIDCOOLER – Keel cooler’s design to improve efficiency and dependability. The rectangular one-piece header design has fewer joints for improved durability and provides greater flexibility in custom cooling solutions. Its design can be adapted into various configurations and shapes to precisely fit available space and cooling demands.
A typical keel cooler features a rectangular shaped tube bundle. Each copper-nickel keel cooler is torch brazed with 56% silver (content) braze wire to maximize the flexibility and durability of the unit. The higher silver content offers superior corrosion resistance, improving the dependability of the keel cooler and its ability to withstand harsher operating conditions. Critical braze joints are ultrasonically tested as an added measure to ensure the unit’s reliability.
Applications
FERNSTRUM GRIDCOOLERS are the ideal choice for small to medium-sized vessels, including tugboats, barges, fishing boats, and ferries. These keel coolers provide versatile temperature control for cooling engines, bow thrusters, air conditioning, and hydraulic systems. With flexible options in size, shape, and configuration, they can even be curved to match a vessel’s hull. Backed by years of engineering excellence, FERNSTRUM continuously enhances the design and performance of their keel coolers to meet the strict demands of customers, market trends, and global classification standards.
Marine Applications
Design Specifications
Stacked GRIDCOOLER Keelcooler:
- Reduces footprint while enhancing heat transfer.
- Ideal for larger engines, reducing the number of units needed.
- Suitable for limited space or repowering applications.
Angled Tube GRIDCOOLER Keelcooler:
- Optimizes heat transfer for side-mounted or stationary applications.
- Maximizes water flow and prevents silt buildup.
- Designed to leverage natural convection currents.
- Customization Options:
- Bending or twisting of the unit.
- Extended nozzles and mounting foot pads.
- Side venting, support plates, and vented studs available.
Key Benefits
- Eliminates on-board raw water pumps
- No need for Seawater Circuit, piping or strainers
- Can operate in icy conditions, silt or polluted waters
- Low maintenance
- There is no sand & silt buildup
- Low operational costs
Selection of Materials
- Nozzles or Flange: Cu/Ni 90/10
- Zinc Anodes & Drain Plugs: Yes
- Tubes: Cu/Ni 90/10
- Isolation Bushings: Yes
