Improved marine transmission launched

The ZF 5000 series has been designed to meet changing requirements and demands of customers and classification societies. During the development process it made significant gains over previous transmission series in terms of power capacity and available ratios.

The company says that the ZF 5000 series is characterised by low-noise gear design, pinion friction bearing, shifting comfort and short engagement times, while providing a large number of variants in a compact package. A variety of accessories and low maintenance demands are said to be in line with the requirements of engine manufacturers and shipbuilders alike.

The series offers larger offset, and reduction ratios of up to 5,5:1. The transmissions can be equipped with an additional power take-in (PTI) and therefore offer a ‘hybrid-ready’ option. The family is completed by non-reversible (NR) versions, with either vertical or horizontal offset.

The ratings are aligned to those of the proven ZF 4600 family, which the company says has been successful over the past 30 years and will gradually be replaced by the ZF 5000 in the product portfolio.

Replacement units and service parts for the ZF 4600 series will continue to be available through ZF Marine’s aftermarket service network, with over 25 wholly owned sales and service organisations and over 500 authorised worldwide service dealers.

Main features of the ZF 5000 transmission series:

• Improved gear module designs, to meet current and foreseeable international survey society requirements;
• Improved power take-off designs, for a larger range of SAE hydraulic pump sizes, and easier installation;
• Improved access to regular maintenance points, reducing service time;
• Auxiliary power take in feature (hybrid ready) or integral shaft brake option for ZF 5300 design variants;
• Improved main housing strength for reduced stress levels;
• Improved internal cooling circuits for more efficient heat transfer into lubrication oil for demanding applications;
• Replaceable cartridge filter with improved filtration capabilities;
• Electric clutch actuation as standard;
• Improved shift quality (with slip range in Autotroll up to lock up);
• Dynamic positioning ready;
• More models to choose from for specific power levels;
• Control switch for ‘emergency mode active’ signal;
• More environmentally friendly: materials, surface treatments, and reduced oil capacity;
• Non-reversing two-shaft gearbox versions, horizontal or vertical offset;
• Diagonal offset reversing gearbox versions.