MLIT and NMRI develop new pod propeller system

The Japanese Ministry of Land Infrastructure and Transport and National Maritime Research Institute have announced the completion of a new contra-rotating pod propeller system developed as part of the Super Eco Ship research project. The system, which is the result of a research and development programme started in 2001, was revealed at IHI’s Aioi plant near Kobe last week and will now enter a month long series of tests.

The system is unique in that the pod unit houses two internal permanent magnetic electric motors driving contra-rotating propellers which gives a 10% increase in propulsive efficiency and significant reductions in hull vibration. Extra manoeuvrability reduces the turning circle of a vessel by up to 30%, dramatically improving mooring performance.