Italian hybrid system

This latest hybrid transmission can be matched to most engine and gearbox combinations and it fits between the engine and its gearbox. Transfluid makes the adapter plates that bolt onto the engine housing on one side and the gearbox bell housing on the other so that it can adapt to various configurations.

The first section on the engine side incorporates a dry clutch unit that is operated by a solenoid valve which enables the engine drive to be disconnected. The output shaft from the clutch has a pulley that engages with a toothed flexible belt drive which drives the motor/generator of the unit which is mounted in parallel and located above the bell housing. The main drive then continues to the gearbox in the normal way and on to the propeller shaft.

This hybrid system is offered in various configurations, the simplest one being having the belt drive connected to a single motor/generator. An alternative is to have the electric drive split between two motor/generators which can form a more compact unit whilst a third option is to have the motor/generator units attached wider apart for a lower profile.

The single generator unit has a capacity of 35 kW at 3000 rpm whilst the two twin units can generate 150 kW when the generators are operating together. The smaller unit is design for use with diesel engines up to 95 kW whilst the larger unit is designed for engines up to 140 kW. All three units feature a ‘get you home’ feature in case there is a master clutch failure.

These units can operate in three modes, the first being as a generator for battery charging or supplying the vessel’s domestic and auxiliary requirements. The second its to have the vessel operating under electric power alone when the diesel engine drive is isolated and the third is to use the electric power to boost the diesel power output. So that diesel and electric motors operate in tandem.

Transfluid can supply a complete package includes the wiring harness, a battery pack and the control and display units. The company operates on a worldwide basis which ensures servicing as required. These units have already been fitted to a number of commercial and leisure craft.

By Dag Pike