ABB launches latest Azipod thruster

Azipod D supplies propulsion power of up to 7MW, with features including a hybrid air and water cooling system increasing torque by around 45% compared to its existing models – meaning that up to 25% less installed power is required for propulsion.

Key features of the thruster unit include a gearless power train, meaning that the motor is next to the propeller with less critical components; electric steering with four redundancy options; adjustable strut height allowing ship builders to optimise hull forms by minimising headbox resistance; and shaftline technology including a redundant seal and online monitoring of bearings.

Jaakko Aho, head of thruster business, ABB explained that the system also features enhanced condition monitoring, allowing for greater predictability and risk management by enabling remote diagnostics. He added that the simplicity of the system meant that installation costs were up to 20% lower than for other thruster systems.

Overhaul of the shaftline can be completed in two days in a dry dock, without the need to send the unit for servicing, while a complete exchange of the thruster can also be completed in two days. Aho said that the ease of service contributed to lifecycle costs of up to 30% less than other thrusters.

ABB noted that the new system would extend Azipod’s target markets to include offshore drilling, construction and support vessels as well as ferries. “The characteristics of Azipod propulsion make it particularly appealing to the offshore shipping segments where most vessels operate in dynamic positioning mode and require highest reliability,” the company said.

ABB claimed that since the launch of the range in 1987, Azipod systems have operated for around 11 million hours with an on-duty rate of 99.9%. The company received orders for Azipod systems worth US$800 million last year.

The company noted that the number of vessels using electric propulsion has grown at 12% a year on average for the past decade according to Clarkson’s Research – growing three times faster than the world’s fleet.

The Motorship will be featuring a full report on the new Azipod unit, including technical information, testing details and case studies, in our print issue in May.