As Azipod ® propulsion enters its 4th years of manufacturing, the most up to date episode of the ABB DECODED podcast checks out the innovation that is reinventing the maritime sector under the waves, with designers Jukka Varis as well as Ole-Jacob Irgens
ABB’s Azipod ® propulsion system has actually brought substantial advancements to the maritime sector, many thanks to its performance gains, sustainability advantages as well as the enhanced ability to move it uses any kind of ship to which it’s fitted.
Jukka Varis– in charge of this innovation around the world, that has actually dealt with the system from the very start– as well as Ole-Jacob Irgens– a designer by training, that currently leads the sales as well as advertising effort for ABB’s Azipod ® system– share their experiences as well as expertise.
What is the Azipod ® propulsion system as well as just how does it function?
Azipod ® propulsion is a gearless steerable propulsion system where the electrical drive electric motor is housed within a shuck outside the ship hull. Originally established for icebreaking vessels, the Azipod ® system can be adjusted to match practically any kind of type of ship. Today, over 25 various vessel kinds depend on Azipod ® innovation– from cruise liner to freight service providers, icebreakers, ferryboats as well as superyachts.
Jukka describes: “Azipod® system looks similar to an outboard motor but is much bigger – the large unit weighs as much as a fully loaded Jumbo Jet. It can turn 360 degrees around its axis, creating thrust in any direction and resulting in much better maneuverability of the vessel.”
Electrical power reduces engine sound as well as resonance, guaranteeing a smoother, quieter trip.
Efficiency as well as sustainability advantages
The real performance advantages of Azipod ® propulsion have actually ended up being an increasing number of evident over the previous 3 years, bringing greater efficiency, dependability as well as sustainability for vessels.
Azipod ® system reduces gas usage by approximately 20 percent contrasted to traditional shaftline propulsion. Ole-Jacob includes: “Since the first installation on a cruise ship 25 years ago, we have estimated that the industry has saved more than 1,000,000 tons of fuels from these cruise ships alone.”
Azipod ® propulsion has actually additionally opened up chances for brand-new delivery lanes that weren’t possible prior to, such as the Northern Sea Route, reducing gas usage while negating the demand for different icebreaker aid.
Ole-Jacob describes: “Vessels can have a shorter route between Europe and Asia, saving many days in transport. To do that, you need vessels which can go through ice, something the unique features of Azipod® enable.”
The success as well as future of Azipod ® propulsion
With the different advantages as well as numerous applications feasible for Azipod ® propulsion, the group is presently dealing with some intriguing ideas.
Ole-Jacob claims: “One concept is to use Azipod® on floating power plants, which require thrusters to put them in position, keep them there and then be able to move again as required. Another interesting prospect is in the fish farming industry. Traditionally, fish farms have been quite fixed but with these installations becoming bigger and bigger, they need to be more flexible and move around. There are definitely lots of groundbreaking applications coming in the future.”
Sea News Feature, June 9
