As the vessel will be deployed in North American waters, the gearbox was strengthened for ice class GL E3 in accordance with classification instructions, which involved using a steel housing for absorbing the additional dynamic stresses encountered in ice conditions.

A key advantage of the sophisticated PTO/PTH application is that via the PTO, a 2,000kW generator linked with the gearbox can be connected via its own clutch for generating electricity.

With the main engine switched off, via the PTH (which also has a separate clutch) a 2,100kW electric motor connected with the gears ensures the vessel remains operative and manoeuvrable.

The reduction is coordinated with the requisite propeller speed so that the propeller can generate the required optimal propulsive power. The PTO/PTH combination yields substantial savings, as only one electric motor is required for operation.

The higher oil requirement resulting from the three hydraulic clutches is met by an electric dual pump system with two circuits.

The division into working pressure and lube oil pressure considerably reduces the stray power of the gearbox, as the entire 650l/min does not have to be brought and maintained at working pressure. There is also less strain on the ship's network due to the reduced power consumption of the pumps.

MJ Information No: 20840