SAAM Towage and SCHOTTEL have signed a cooperation agreement aimed at improving operational reliability.
A central element of the partnership is the development of predictive maintenance capabilities for azimuth propulsion systems, using condition-based monitoring to better determine optimal servicing intervals.
The approach draws on established practices in sectors such as aviation and mining, where data-led maintenance scheduling is used to reduce downtime and improve asset availability.
The companies will also explore improved spare parts planning and faster response strategies for critical equipment, with the objective of strengthening operational continuity across the fleet.
Alentué Pompei, Fleet and Operations Manager at SAAM Towage, said: “The agreement allows us to move toward a more integrated and collaborative relationship with SCHOTTEL, with a focus on continuous improvement, the availability of our fleet and the efficiency of our maintenance processes. This is a crucial step toward further strengthening the reliability of our operations and the service we provide to our customers.”
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As part of the agreement, SCHOTTEL will appoint a dedicated fleet manager to oversee unit monitoring, coordinate technical exchanges and support the development of an integrated database covering propulsion systems installed across SAAM’s vessels.
Julio Carrasquilla, Managing Director of SCHOTTEL de Colombia, stated: “We are proud to support SAAM in this strategic partnership, creating long-term value through a more integrated and future-oriented maintenance approach. By leveraging innovation and data-driven insights, we support the continued development of SAAM’s SCHOTTEL-equipped tugboat fleet.”
Around 37 per cent of SAAM Towage’s azimuth tug fleet is currently equipped with SCHOTTEL systems.
The partnership also builds on recent regional investment in technical support infrastructure, including the opening of a SCHOTTEL workshop in Cartagena, Colombia, aimed at strengthening service coverage in Latin America.
For more information:
SAAM – https://www.saamtowage.com/
