ABB propulsion for Chinese built icebreaker

The Polar Research Institute of China ship will be fitted with two Azipod VI units with a combined power of 15MWs representing another milestone for ABB in the Chinese market.

Juha Koskela, managing director of ABB’s Marine and Ports business said: “ABB delivered its first electric propulsion system to an icebreaker in 1939 and we are delighted to be playing such an important role in the first vessel of this type to be constructed in China. This deal reflects the close ties we have built within China.”

For two of the vessel’s four engines, ABB Turbocharging will also supply A100-M turbochargers, offering high turbocharging efficiency and enabling excellent engine load response which is critical for the adverse ambient environment of the icebreaker.

With a built-in high-efficiency AC motor and fixed-pitch propeller mounted directly on the motor shaft, the Azipod has helped to revolutionise the ice-going segment. The thruster’s ability to turn 360 degrees means that the icebreaker will be able to operate stern or bow.

The multifunctional icebreaker will be used for science research and has a displacement of 14.3 thousand tonnes. It can break ice layers with horizontal thickness of up to 1.5 m forwards and backwards, with a continuous icebreaking speed of 2 to 3 knots.

When it goes into service it will complement the work of the Xue Long icebreaker, promoting the development of polar science research in China.