Hybrid gearbox at SMM

The new hybrid version of the LAF 6766 has a controllable PTO/PTI and has been developed for a controllable pitch propeller system with a power output of 5.350kW at 900rpm.

The PTI mode allows for slow manoeuvring, for example in the harbour, while the generators drive the electric motor on the gearbox. Additional generator power is fed into the ship’s grid to cover electricity requirements on board.

When the ship is heading from the harbour to, for example, an offshore oil rig at normal cruising speed, it is in the cruising mode. As common in standard applications, the gearbox transmits the power from the diesel engine to the propeller without distributing any power on board additionally.

In dynamic positioning, one of the shaft systems is operated with the diesel engine, with the generator being driven in parallel which, supplies energy for the PTI motor on the second shaft generator – this saves fuel and reduces wear.

Towing the oil rig to another location requires lots of power and hence, the gearbox is running in the booster mode. In this mode, the electric motor and the diesel engine operate together and their combined power drives the AHTS.

Easy switching between all four modes of operation by means of the hydraulically operated clutches enables the ship to optimally use its power and take full advantage of the gearbox and the entire power train.