Thruster order for wind farm ship

The launch of the vessel is scheduled for early 2012. The VIT (Voith inline thruster) is of 2.3m diameter, and is said to be the most powerful inline thruster on the market. Voith claims to be the only manufacturer currently producing thrusters of 1,500kW power based on permanent magnet synchronous machine technology (rim drives). The other three thrusters are of the Voith Schneider Propeller (VSP) type.

Since the start of series production in 2008, Voith has sold more than 55 rim drive units, most of which are already in service. Both VIT and VIP (Voith inline propulsors) are so-called rim drives, based on the principle of a thruster with a permanently excited electric motor housed in the hollow shaft and no maintenance requirements owing to sea water-lubricated bearings. The company says that this drive technology combines electrical, mechanical and hydrodynamic elements to obtain low vibrations, extreme smoothness of running and compact dimensions.

Another type of VIP is the swing-out azimuth stern thrusters, which can be extended from the vessel hull and can be rotated through 360° without limitation. These characteristics, along with DP capabilities, make such thrusters suitable for offshore applications.