Bow Coupling Installation for Split Hopper Dredger
1 december 2025
We recently completed the production of a full bow coupling installation within a tight timeframe. The scope included a guide ring construction, an integrated female part and a male part. This installation will be used on a split hopper dredger and has an inner diameter of 500 millimetres.
Specifications of this bow coupling project
We received the order from our client DMOS (Dredging Marine Offshore). The project covered the production and delivery of our well-known bow coupling installation. For this application, we manufactured the guide ring and gantry construction, as well as the female and male parts. These components will be connected to the floating pipeline. The bow coupling has a nominal inner diameter of 500 millimeters. It operates at a working pressure of up to 10 bar. In addition, the male part allows a maximum rotation angle of 15 degrees. Finally, the installation will be fitted on an existing split hopper dredger. The vessel is currently being modified for an international dredging contractor.
Did you know Straatman invented the dredging bow coupling?
In the early 1980's, Straatman, then operating as Van de Graaf, developed the very first dredging bow coupling.
This discharge system connects a trailing suction hopper dredger directly to a floating pipeline.
As a result, dredged material can be discharged quickly and in a controlled manner. Moreover, the system allows discharge at virtually any location.
Today, bow couplings are used worldwide. Typical applications include beach nourishment, land reclamation, construction projects and mining operations.
