ABB's New Azipod Thruster
ABB has released details on its latest generation Azipod thruster, a unit which ranges in power from 1.6 megawatts to 7 megawatts (MW) and is intended to serve a growing electric propulsion market. (According to Clarkson’s Research, the number of vessels with electric propulsion has been growing at a pace of 12% per year over the last decade).
ABB said a significant development is the fact that Azipod D will allow for a wider range of vessel types to use the innovative propulsion system. The gearless Azipod already has a multitude of references, including cruise ships, icebreakers, ice-going cargo vessels and offshore accommodation ships. The Azipod D is targeting these sectors and more, with segments such as offshore drilling, construction and support vessels and ferries on tap.
The manufacturer predictably touts a long list of advantages for the system, including competitive investment cost, ease of maintenance and increased flexibilities for designers and shipbuilder, with the ability to accommodate a wide range of hull shapes and propeller sizes, as well as simplicity of installation of the propulsion units. According to ABB, the Azipod D requires up to 25 percent less installed power, partly due to the fact that the new hybrid cooling increases the performance of the electric motor by up to 45 percent.
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