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Marine Propulsion and Stabilisation Systems

Marine Applications

FTL supports a wide range of applications within marine propulsion and stabilisation systems, providing sealing solutions designed for harsh, high‑load, and continuously submerged environments. Typical applications include:

  • Propulsion shafts and stern tubes where seals must retain lubrication and prevent seawater ingress.
  • Stabiliser fin systems operating under dynamic hydrodynamic forces and constant seawater contact.
  • Steering gear and rudder stocks requiring reliable sealing through oscillating motion and high mechanical loads.
  • ROV thrusters used in subsea robotic systems, where compact, high‑speed propulsion units require low‑friction, long‑life sealing under subsea pressure.
Application engineering & 3D design

Rotary Shaft Seals

Designed for long‑life performance in harsh marine environments, these seals combine elastomer flexibility with fabric reinforcement for stability and wear resistance. Available in split or endless designs, they prevent contamination and lubricant loss to protect bearings and keep systems running reliably.

Bullnose Seals

A robust sealing option engineered for larger shaft diameters and high radial movement. Their tapered “bullnose” geometry provides excellent contact pressure distribution, improving oil retention and extending service intervals.

Inflatable Seals ​

Used for temporary sealing during maintenance or when isolating the system. They provide a reliable method of sealing without dismantling surrounding equipment, reducing downtime and improving safety during service operations.

PTFE Lip Seals

High‑performance seals offering exceptional chemical resistance, low friction, and long wear life, making them particularly suitable for high‑speed marine thrusters and applications where shaft speeds and temperature variations challenge traditional elastomer seals.

How we improve your system

  • Direct access to specialist engineers who provide fast, informed support for complex applications.
  • Custom‑engineered sealing solutions optimised for each system’s performance, environment, and operating conditions.
  • Lower total cost of ownership, with robust seals that help prevent failures requiring costly vessel dry‑docking and unplanned repairs
  • Proven field experience and end‑to‑end collaboration, giving OEMs confidence from concept through validation and into long‑term operation.
  • Flexible stockholding, logistics support, and kit‑building services that streamline production, simplify assembly, and support aftermarket demand
Case studies
Seal testing & validation support

Solutions

Tailored to your application for optimum performance.

Learn more

Case Studies

Our case studies highlight how FTL works closely with customers to improve the performance and reliability of their marine equipment. Even in harsh environments and mission‑critical systems, we help operators reduce maintenance demands, minimise downtime, and extend seal life through tailored design and engineering support. In many projects, our in‑house test rigs play a key role in validating new sealing concepts, simulating real‑world conditions, and giving customers confidence in the final solution. Explore our case studies to see how our collaborative, engineering‑led approach delivers measurable results across a range of challenging applications.
Case studies

Contact Us

FTL has been designing and delivering high‑performance marine sealing solutions for over 40 years, building extensive experience in the demanding environments of propulsion systems, stabilisers, steering gear, and thrusters. Our tailored design approach ensures every seal is developed to meet the specific challenges of marine operation.

A versatile approach

From naval vessels to commercial ships and cruise liners, our engineers apply bespoke sealing solutions across a wide variety of marine systems. We work closely with customers to create designs that match real‑world operating conditions and vessel requirements.

A wide range of marine sealing solutions

FTL supplies a comprehensive portfolio, including rubber/fabric rotary seals, bullnose seals, PTFE lip seals, inflatable seals, and multi‑seal arrangements for propulsion shafts, stabilisers, steering gear, and thruster units.

A trusted partner to global marine OEMs

Over decades, we’ve established strong relationships with leading marine equipment manufacturers, supporting them with reliable, application‑specific sealing solutions that enhance system performance and long‑term reliability.

Speak to an expert about Marine Sealing Solutions

To enquire for further information about our marine sealing solutions, get in touch with us today on +44 (0)113 252 1061.