Azipod Propulsion for New USCG Icebreaker
01 Nov 2002
The Mackinaw will see summer duty as a waterway buoy tender.
ABB has been awarded a contract by the Marinette Marine Corporation to supply electric propulsion drives and azipod propulsion systems and to act as the engine room single system integrator for a new Great Lakes Icebreaker design.
Marinette Marine will deliver the vessel for the US Coast Guard in October 2005, which will be equipped with two azipod units for improved manoeuvrability and ice-going characteristics. The variable speed electric drive provides full torque to the propeller motor from zero to nominal speed in both direction, thereby enhancing operability in heavy ice conditions. The vessel, to be named Mackinaw, will be deployed as a waterway buoy tender during the open water season.
The azipod propulsion system has proven its performance on a number of icebreakers and ice going vessels. The electric podded propulsion unit is capable of unlimited 360º steering. The placement of the electric propulsion motor in the submerged pod eliminates the need for mechanical gears.
MJ Information No: 17624
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