Inspenet, June 2, 2023
ABB today introduced ABB Dynafin™ , a new concept that represents a revolutionary propulsion system that breaks new ground for efficiency in the marine industry.
Inspired by the dynamic movements of a whale’s tail, the innovative concept is the result of more than a decade of research, development and testing.
ABB’s extensive experience and combined knowledge of the marine industry, together with its innovative heritage, are the driving forces behind this new concept. ABB estimates that the first prototype will be available in 2025.
“ABB Dynafin™ shows what is possible when marine engineers pursue radical innovation and progress, inspired by the interplay of evolution and technology,” said Juha Koskela, division president, ABB Marine & Ports.
He added: “This solution is all about operational efficiency and emissions prevention, leveraging innovations from the brightest minds in marine and propulsion engineering. I want to thank the entire team for their persistence, resilience, innovation and years of hard work.”
Discover the new whale-inspired concept that will change the game in the maritime industry
The new propulsion concept features a main electric motor driving a large wheel that rotates at a moderate speed of 30 to 80 rpm. Vertical blades, each controlled by an individual motor and control system, extend from the wheel.
The combined motion of the wheel and blades generates propulsion and steering forces simultaneously, enabling groundbreaking operational efficiency and precision for ships. The concept follows ABB’s proven design philosophy in gearless power transmission marine propulsion.
An independent study by OSK-ShipTech A/S’s ABB Dynafin™ of the design of a passenger ship fitted with different propulsion solutions has verified savings in propulsion power consumption of up to 22 percent compared to line configuration conventional axis.
This can lead to significant savings in fuel consumption and help prevent emissions. As part of an electric propulsion power system, the concept is also fully compatible with zero emission battery and fuel cell technologies.
Initially available in the power range of 1 to 4 MW per unit, the new propulsion concept is particularly effective for small and medium-sized vessels, including passenger and vehicle ferries, offshore support vessels operating at wind farms, and yachts.
By reducing vibrations and noise levels, the system improves comfort for passengers and crew. In addition, the propulsion concept offers superior maneuverability and positioning performance, that is, the ability of the vessel to maintain the desired position and heading.
Source : ABB
Photos : ABB
Don’t miss the Inspenet News at: https://inspenet.com/inspenet-tv/