‘Quantum leap’ claimed in ship propulsion

Gamma Light and Heavy Industries seems somewhat reticent about revealing details about its system or even about its own location. ‘The Gamma Propulsion System’ (TGPS) is based on several low-powered electrically-driven propulsion units distributed around the ship hull. Although the units would appear to bear some resemblance to pump-jet type thrusters, our Australian correspondent Wendy Laursen has been assured that “nothing could be further from the truth.”

The company says that its system is a far more efficient way of converting horsepower into thrust – a ship originally propelled by a 3,000bhp main engine could achieve equivalent performance with TGPS from a total installed power of 600bhp to 750bhp.

Gamma explains that it has “disregarded all previous technology and set about focusing on the most efficient and effective way to produce thrust. Starting from the very basic principles it came up with a system that circumvents all the inefficiencies of the propeller.”

Tank tests of the pump unit have been witnessed by a surveyor from Lloyd’s Register Asia; results recorded on the certificate suggested that at different motor frequencies, thrust measurements of between 5.24 times and 6.17 times “better than an average ship’s propeller” were recorded. The tests were carried out in Queensland, Australia, on behalf of Douglas Bruce/Pacific Paramount Ltd of Brisbane; apparently to verify the performance of the electrically-driven pump units for both ship propulsion and use in a water theme park.

The company claims that TGPS is capable of manoeuvring a displacement vessel in all directions – forward, aft, sideways, spin in its own length and crab – using its power range right up to full thrust, and is purpose designed as the main method of propulsion for freighters, bulk carriers, oil tankers and container ships. It says that the system is suitable for retrofitting as well as new installations.

Gamma Light & Heavy Industries says it is currently seeking partners and investors to take the idea further.