gets directed through the propeller in the right direction . This will improve hydrodynamic efficiency by 5 to 10 percent , depending on the application ,” Lehtelä explains .
While Azipod D version has already been sold for use in various ships , the Azipod XL will be officially launched for sales in early 2017 for power ranges up to 17.5 MW , with further models for other power ranges expected to follow .
Mr . Lehtelä notes that the R & D work for the Azipod XL took several years at ABB ’ s marine laboratory in Helsinki , Finland .
” In the development stages , numerous possible solutions were tested . Various scale-model tests were required .”
” The new products are more energyefficient , more reliable and easier to access for service work than the older models . New technology will bring savings in fuel costs . Furthermore , environmental emissions will be reduced .”
” Furthermore , a system for continuous measurement will provide telemetry data that can be transmitted via satellite links to ABB ’ s three Integrated Operation Centres worldwide , making it easier to plan overhauls before any serious faults occur ,” recounts Lehtelä . photo : ROLLS-ROYCE PLC .
NEW-GENERATION DUCTED PROPULSOR
Steerprop Ltd . has launched a new generation of ducted azimuth propulsors with new features and upgraded design specifications . Solutions are available for various vessel types .
” Amongst the novelties is a new propeller nozzle type , HJ4 . Steerprop ’ s R & D team combined experience with new design and produced a nozzle profile that will yield better propulsion characteristics than older models ,” notes hydrodynamist Hannu Jukola from Steerprop Ltd ., based in Rauma in Finland .
” Also , the new nozzle is easier and cheaper to manufacture than previous nozzle types , while no compromises have been made with the operational specifications .”
” By adapting the propeller and rudder into one propulsive unit , Promas offers increased propulsive efficiency and improved manoeuvrability ,” says Göran Grunditz , Manager of the Rolls-Royce Hydrodynamic Research Centre ( HRC ).
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Virtually any vessel will benefit .
The new propeller nozzle has been designed specifically for tugs , anchor handlers , push boats and other support ships that require high bollard pull .
” For these types of ships , the bollard pull characteristics are particularly significant . The HJ4 nozzle guarantees superior bollard pull without compromising the propulsive efficiency ,” Jukola says .
BETTER FUEL ECONOMY
According to Mr . Jukola , the new propulsor type has been created with modern design technology .
” Seen from the outside the unit may resemble previous versions , but they incorporate the latest hi-tech solutions .”
” The shape of the underwater housing has been designed for optimised hydrodynamics . The R & D team utilised 3-D design tools in order to produce a more slender body and a smaller hub ratio than those of older models . Furthermore , the devices now have improved efficiency , endurance , and fuel economy , producing a new degree of high performance .”
The underwater part of propulsor is now manufactured with steel cast housing for enhanced robustness .
” The cast also makes the device more cost-efficient to produce at the workshop ,” Jukola mentions .
It took approximately one year of R & D work to design the new propulsion unit . It has just been launched to the market , with first deliveries expected in 2017 .
” In addition , we are in the process of developing a new solution for Ferries and RoPax ships as well as ice class vessels : the CRP ECO LM-unit . This innovation , incorporating an integrated perma-
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