Electric pod propulsion applied to boost electric tugs
A ‘strategic partnership’ has been announced between Damen Shipyards and AAAPropulsion, the Dutch electric marine propulsion company, to apply its technology to Damen’s electric tugs.Fitted underneath the hull, the A-Pod, says AAAPropulsion, reduces drag and increases efficiency while improving ship stability with its lower centre of gravity.
Among AAAPropulsion’s electric maritime propulsion systems is its patented A-Pod, a 360o azimuthing thruster system with an integrated electric motor installed in the lower POD housing and cooled by the outer water.
Fitted underneath the hull, the A-Pod, says AAAPropulsion, reduces drag and increases efficiency while improving ship stability with its lower centre of gravity. It comes with a 330kW-3.300kW power output.
It delivers up to 30% lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions and is equipped with a permanent magnet electric motor and dry sump for lubrication. And because it contains a minimal number of rotating parts, it eliminates the need for shaft lines, rudders or nozzles, the company says.
“The all-integrated and compact design facilitates an easy installation,” says the company. “As an additional advantage, being mounted on the outside of the vessel means the propulsion system allows the engine room size to be significantly reduced.”
“We are very excited to enter into this partnership with Damen,” said Dick-Jan de Blaeij, CEO of AAAPropulsion. “There is a clear synergy between our two organisations, particularly with regard to our shared vision of innovation and sustainability. We are looking forward to working together with Damen. Combining our strengths, we will explore the potential that exists to boost vessel efficiency.”
Damen aims to expand the use of the A-Pod system to other market segments, it says, without specifying.
“We aspire to become the most sustainable, connected shipbuilder and maritime solutions provider of the world,” said Jean-Pierre van Lankveld, Category Manager Propulsion at Damen. “One way in which we will achieve this goal is through collaboration with partners such as AAAPropulsion who share our commitment to a cleaner and more efficient maritime future.”
