Flap Rudder Market Size, Share, and COVID-19 Impact Analysis, By Flap Material (Metal and Composite), By Fit (Linefit and Retrofit), By Vessel Type (Cargo Vessels, Passenger Vessels, Bulk Carriers, Oil & Gas Carriers, and Offshore Vessels) and Regional Forecast, 2024-2032

A flap rudder is a multi-section rudder with a trailing edge flap that is actuated by a mechanical or hydraulic system. Compared to a traditional rudder of the same form, size, and area, it provides substantial lift per rudder angle and 60-70% higher maximum lift. In addition, it increases low-speed maneuverability by restricting the propeller's forward thrust. Flap rudders are appropriate for cargo carriers, container feeders, car carriers, cruise liners, research vessels, fishing vessels, and others.

The global flap rudder market is expected to grow significantly during the forecast period. The increase in freight transport, the high intensity of bulk carriers, and expanding ship repair and maintenance activities worldwide are driving market expansion. Furthermore, increased offshore building activities worldwide are expected to enhance flap rudder industry growth during the forecasted period. For instance, in 2018, more than 60,000 wells were drilled onshore, with over 2,000 wells drilled offshore. The flap rudder market may be affected by the high cost of building and maintaining a flap rudder.

Impact of COVID-19 on the Flap Rudder Market

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the maritime industry; hence, the flap rudder market was also negatively affected. Due to widespread shortages and shipping delays of steel, the global supply chain disruptions caused delays in the delivery of raw materials essential for constructing flap rudders. The pandemic also caused a halt in worldwide trade and economic activity, which reduced demand for new ships. As a result, demand for flap rudders decreased.

Travel restrictions and quarantine precautions also caused delays and disruptions in ship maintenance and repair, including replacing flap rudders. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the flap rudder business due to reduced demand and production. However, demand for ships and ship repair activities has continuously increased post-pandemic due to global trade opening and people wanting to engage in socially distant leisure activities like boating-related activities.

Key Insights

The report will cover the following key insights:

• Key Industry Developments – Mergers, Acquisitions, and Partnerships.


• Porter's Five Forces Analysis.


• Technological Developments.


• Impact of COVID-19 on the Flap Rudder Market.

Regional Analysis

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The Asia Pacific is predicted to develop the most due to increased water transportation and industrialization and rising imports and exports in the region's emerging economies. One of the key factors driving the expansion of marine vessels throughout the region is the cost-effectiveness of maritime routes. India, Vietnam, and China are projected to showcase rapid growth.

The Middle East and Africa are likely to rise due to increased imports of commodities and raw resources and crude oil exports via sea routes.

Europe's flap rudder market is also rapidly growing due to the rising demand for fishing, marine tourism, submarine transportation, and other related activities.

Key Players Covered

The report includes profiles of key players such as Becker Marine Systems GmbH; Damen Marine Components; De Waal BV; Jiangsu China Empire Offshore Engineering Equipment Manufacture Co. Ltd.; Kamome Propeller; Kemp Propulsion Systems; Kongsberg Gruppen; Nakashima Propeller Co. Ltd.; Wuxi Delin Marine Equipment Co. Ltd; YMV Crane and Winch Systems, and others.

Segmentation

Key Industry Developments

• April 2021: Japan's Nakashima Propeller acquired a majority stake in the Hamburg-based shipbuilding supplier Becker Marine Systems. This takeover will likely strengthen their joint position in the global maritime industry.


• January 2023: Damen Marine Components received the order to design, engineer, and produce eight rudders for the four F126 frigates that Damen Naval is building for the German Navy.


• November 2022: Kongsberg Maritime developed a new Direct Trunk Support (DTS) system for rudders that directly transfers maneuvering forces from the rudder through the headbox and steering gear deck into the hull structure. This promises to improve maneuvering and propulsion performance and deliver weight savings that can ultimately save fuel and help cut emissions.