ABB's New Azipod Thruster

Posted by Irina Tabakina

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.
www.abb.com
 

Maritime Reporter Magazine, page 99, Apr 2015

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First published in 1881 Maritime Reporter is the world's largest audited circulation publication serving the global maritime industry.