SAAM has signed a global agreement with SCHOTTEL to improve the maintenance and operational performance of its tugboat fleet across the Americas.
The partnership will focus on optimising the total cost of ownership (TCO) and improving the maintenance of azimuth thrusters.
The companies will also explore predictive maintenance solutions using condition-based monitoring. The approach aims to identify the optimal time for servicing equipment, reduce unplanned downtime and improve spare parts planning.
As part of the agreement, SCHOTTEL will appoint a fleet manager to monitor SAAM’s vessels, coordinate technical information and help develop an integrated database of the installed equipment.
“The agreement allows us to move toward a more integrated and collaborative relationship with SCHOTTEL, with a focus on continuous improvement, fleet availability and maintenance efficiency,” said Alentué Pompei, Fleet and Operations Manager at SAAM Towage.
SCHOTTEL said the partnership will support the long-term development of SAAM’s tugboat fleet through data-driven maintenance and technical expertise.
Currently, around 37% of SAAM’s azimuth tugboat fleet is equipped with SCHOTTEL propulsion systems. The recent opening of a SCHOTTEL workshop in Cartagena, Colombia, is also expected to strengthen technical support across the region.
