Case Study

Lignum Vitae Bearings in CSL Frontenac Ship

Vikramaditya: Russian-built, Indian-owned modified Kiev-class aircraft carrier, a critical asset for the Indian Navy.

Water-Lubricated Bearings in the Vikramaditya Aircraft Carrier

Specifications

  • Length: 932 feet
  • Displacement: 45,400 tons

Propulsion System

  • Four Shafts – 27” Diameter
  • 180,000HP
  • 16 Bearings 
  • 105ft. Shaft
  • Four 18ft. Propellers
Water-Lubricated Bearings in the Vikramaditya Aircraft Carrier

Objective

  • On-Site Expertise: LVNA experts supervised the installation, completed within one week.
  • Replace worn bearings to maintain operational efficiency and enhance long-term performance.
  • Solution Provided by Lignum Vitae North America (LVNA):
  • Material Delivery: 2.5 tons of premium-grade Lignum Vitae delivered to India in just 9 days.

Challenges

Aging Bearings: Original Lignum Vitae bearings were 33 years old and reached the end of service life.

Material Advantages

  • Natural self-lubricating properties.
  • Superior resistance to wear and corrosion.
  • Extended lifespan with reduced maintenance needs.
Water-Lubricated Bearings in the Vikramaditya Aircraft Carrier

Results

  • Improved Efficiency: Enhanced propulsion system performance with reduced friction and vibration.
  • Operational Longevity: Bearings built to last, minimizing future maintenance costs.
  • Cost Savings: The self-lubricating nature leads to smoother operations and lower lifecycle expenses.

Key Highlights

  • Rapid Response: Material delivered in 9 days, minimizing downtime.
  • Efficient Installation: LVNA team completed the project in one week.
  • Long-Term Benefits: Enhanced efficiency, reduced friction, and extended service life for the propulsion system.

Conclusion

  • LVNA’s swift service, high-quality materials, and expert installation ensured the Vikramaditya’s continued reliability.
  • The success of this project reinforces Lignum Vitae’s role in maintaining critical maritime assets and showcases LVNA’s commitment to world-class solutions for the Indian Navy.

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Discover how our expertise and the unmatched performance of Lignum Vitae can benefit your operations. Contact us today to discuss your specific needs.

Wood Grain texture taken from a Lignum Vitae tree