ZF brings propulsion products to Seawork

ZF Services UK Ltd will use Seawork 2012 to showcase examples from ZF Marine’s range of propulsion products and systems for tugs, wind farm support vessels, fish farm vessels, OSVs, other workboats and patrol sessels.

A ZF gearbox assembly facility in Germany.

Products featured on the ZF Services UK Ltd stand (A97) will include the ZF 3060 V 10° V-drive, Remote Mount Marine Transmission. Suitable for high performance applications in all types of fast craft, patrol vessels and crew boats, the ZF 3060 V is compatible with all kinds of engines and propulsion systems, including waterjets, surface-piercing propellers and controllable pitch propellers. Reliable, compact, lightweight and simple to install, this 3 shaft reverse reduction transmission has a hydraulic clutch mounted on the input shaft and a further one on the reverse shaft. Suitable for twin engine installation the ZF 3060V offers smooth and reliable shifting and is designed to take maximum propeller thrust astern and ahead. Other features include an emergency ‘get home’ capability and SUPERSHIFT clutch control.

The ZF CP KS 700 Controllable Pitch Propeller will be on show as an example from the KS Series of Controllable Pitch Propellers (CPP). Combining propulsion efficiency and ease of installation with the latest technology, the new KS Series is compact, features a reduced hub/prop diameter ratio for better hydrodynamic efficiency and is designed for easy maintenance.

The hub has a hydro-dynamically improved shape leading to better fuel efficiency for the vessel compared to traditional hub designs on the market. Assembly and servicing is simplified as access to internal components is possible from the back of the hub.

All controllable pitch propellers in the KS Series feature double sealing between hub and the propeller base. The range of available propeller hubs covers 20 models allowing precise matching of propellers to any customised propulsion solutions. Available up to 7.75m diameter with hub diameter of 1.55m, and with custom designed propeller blades to maximise efficiency, the range can be matched to engines from 350 kW to 16,000 kW.

The 9000 Series Electronic Control System includes both MicroCommander and ClearCommand control systems and can be configured for use with mechanical engines and electric gearboxes, electric engines and mechanical gearboxes, or both mechanical or electrical.

Engine synchronisation is standard, which automatically maintains the same speed on multiple engines, therefore increasing operating efficiency and improving fuel economy while reducing noise and vibration. One lever operation is available, allowing control of multiple engines and transmissions with a single lever. There is also the ability to support multiple control stations and the option to use a handheld control unit. A full range of shaft speeds remains available from any station, without additional switches.

In addition, the trolling feature controls clutch slippage while maintaining slow engine speed and thereby enhancing fuel economy. Speed/shift sequence protection allows shifting from full ahead to full astern in one motion while preventing damage to the engine or gear. Designed with safety in mind, this sequencing technology allows an instant response to emergency situations.

On Stand No. A81 at Seawork, one of ZF Services UK Ltd’s marine dealers, Golden Arrow Marine, will be featuring a ZF 360 A 7° Down Angle, Direct Mount Marine Transmission.

This reverse reduction marine transmission with hydraulically actuated multi-disc clutches is suitable for workboats. Compatible with all types of engines and propulsion systems, including waterjets and surface-piercing propellers, it is reliable and simple to install. Whilst lightweight and compact, its robust design will withstand continuous duty in workboat applications.