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The Þ nal 2013 EPA VGP language is out. If youÕve got a Controllable Pitch Propeller and Thruster Hydraulic Fluid and other Oil-to-Sea Interfaces, including Lubrication Dis- charges from Paddle Wheel Propulsion, Stern Tubes, Thrust- er Bearings, Stabilizers, Rudder Bearings, Azimuth Thrusters, Propulsion Pod Lubrication, Wire Rope and other Mechani- cal Equipment Subject to Immersion, then you are at risk for reportable, potentially expensive costs associated with inad- vertent discharges. Unless, of course, youÕve already started to change out your traditional seals, bushings and other oil-to- sea interfaces with seawater lubricated materials. It goes without saying that the protective seals on any oil- to-sea interfaces must be maintained in good operating order to minimize the leaking of hydraulic oil or other oils. But, what if you didnÕt have to worry about that Ð at all? And, even if you are utilizing an EAL in all oil to sea interfaces, did you know that the discharge of biodegradable lubricants that makes a sheen is still a reportable regulatory event? Actually, EPA recommends that all new build vessel opera- tors endeavor to use seawater-based systems for their stern tube lubrication to eliminate the discharge of oil from these interfac- es to the aquatic environment. For blue water operators, Thor- don Bearings has long been a familiar name that has helped scores of vessel operators sleep better at night, save money and virtually eliminate the discharge of lubricants from a myriad of potential vessel sources. The advent of the new EPA VGP and the Coast GuardÕs dreaded subchapterM rules now promises to be the prime mover for Thordon on inland and coastal waters. THREE FOR THE MONEY In two readily identiÞ able areas and one that is rapidly evolving, the use of ThordonÕs patented Thorplas materials allows operators to eliminate the need for lubricants in tra- ditional applications. Most commonly known for seawater shaft bearing solutions, Thordon also provides grease free rudder bearings and now, materials that work on deck, too. Thordon isnÕt new to inland applications. With over 20 years experience on the Mississippi River system, the long wearing Thordon RiverTough water lubricated propeller shaft bear- ings, grease-free SXL rudder bearings and Thorplas steering linkage bearings are rapidly becoming the choice of opera- tors looking to run a regulatory compliant, clean and efÞ cient ß eet. Workboat operators like ACL, Blessey Marine, Ingram Barge and Seacor have already discovered how, with Thordon, all three metrics can and do go hand-in-hand. THORDON RIVERTOUGH WATER LUBRICATED PROPELLER SHAFT BEARINGSThordon provides a choice of water lubricated propeller shaft bearings for all types of workboats. Each option of- fers speciÞ c advantages in different water environments and operating conditions. Installing Thordon water lubricated propeller shaft bearings eliminates risk of pollution, pro- vides proven long wear life and high natural wear resistance. SXL RUDDER BEARINGS & T HORPLAS STEERING LINKAGE BEARINGSSteering gear can be a highly neglected piece of equip- ment. DifÞ cult to access to properly lubricate, it is also one of the most dangerous spots on the boat, fraught with pinchpoints and typically situated in a cramped and poorly lit area. The ThorPlas Self Aligning Bearing (SAB), devel- oped for the live end of a hydraulic steering system, solves TECH FILESubM & EPA?s VGP Drive Green Trend on Workboats Thordon Oil Free Propeller Shaft Bearings and Grease Free Rudder Bearings for Workboats produce two kinds of green. By Joe KeefeSafety: no physical lubrication necessary; less risk for crew. Pollution Risks: eliminated / no lubricants required.Economics: no need to carry lubricants / spares. Wear rates: In very muddy waters; typically half that of rub- ber bearings - or often even less.Easy Installation and bearing exchange.Rudders operate without any binding.Reduces piston and cylinder damage.Operate under high loads of pressures to 4500 psi.Primary Bene ts of Thordon Bearings June 201332 MNMN June2013 Layout 32-42.indd 32MN June2013 Layout 32-42.indd 325/30/2013 11:09:54 AM5/30/2013 11:09:54 AM
