At the ABB booth at Electric & Hybrid Marine Expo there’s been a lot of interest in the company’s radical new propulsion system concept, called the Dynafin, which draws inspiration from the motions of a whale’s tail.
The result of more than 10 years of R&D and testing, the concept consists of a main electric motor that powers a large wheel that rotates approximately 30-80 times a minute. Attached to the wheel are vertical blades, each controlled by a single motor. The combination of the wheel and blades results in propulsion and steering forces.
ABB estimates that the first prototype of the Dynafin will be available in 2025, with the propulsion solution initially available in power ranges from 1-4MW per unit. The company says the system delivers reduced noise and vibration levels and is suitable for medium and small vessels such as ferries, offshore support vessels and yachts.
A study conducted by OSK-ShipTech has found that the ABB Dynafin would result in up to 22% verified savings in propulsion energy consumption compared with conventional shaft line configurations, saving fuel and emissions. The Dynafin concept is also compatible with zero-emission battery and fuel cell technologies.
“We look forward to meeting our maritime friends on Booth 7032 in Hall 8 to discuss the latest technology,” commented Daniel Olsson, a drives expert at ABB Motion. “We are here presenting integrated solutions for ship and shore, including ABB’s pioneering fuel cell solution and ABB Dynafin,” he continued.
“You can also experience the marine virtual hub at the booth to explore holistic solutions; and we are showcasing liquid-cooled ACS880 drives, including the recently launched power extension to lower powers. Our experts are here to discuss how we can help you optimize your systems and vessels, provide greater efficiency and reliability, and prepare the industry to meet the demands of tomorrow.
“We are very excited to be back in Amsterdam for the Electric & Hybrid Marine Expo, to once again have a chance to collaborate with the industry to further increase efficiency and reduce the environmental impact of vessels.”
Find out more at Booth 7032, and click here for more ABB news.
