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ZF hybrid-capable transmissions enable zero-emissions operations
Tightening environmental regulations are increasing demand for marine hybrid-electric propulsion, pushing the development of a new generation of hybrid-capable transmissions
These new gearboxes allow operators to use electric power in low- and zero-emissions zones.
ZF Marine has developed a range of hybrid-capable transmissions covering the power range from 600 kW conventional power to 11,500 kW. In the lower power range, the hybrid-capable transmissions can be combined with electric engines and inverters between 150 kWe and 600 kWe.
Offered for the power range between 1,000 and 3,000 kW, one of these is the ZF 8000 marine transmission, which comes in various housing sizes to provide shipbuilders and designers with a higher degree of flexibility for installation in newbuilds and retrofits. These transmissions can incorporate an optional power take-in (PTI) that exerts force on the propeller shaft using only an electric motor or in combination with an internal combustion engine. This additional drive can handle a large variety of gear ratios. An optional spur gear drive compensates for the speed differences between the main engine and the electric motor.
ZF 8000 marine transmissions have a high power density, and an optimised power-to-weight ratio, according to ZF Marine. With an optional sub-shaft, the ZF 8000 can be coupled with an electric drive. This lets vessels operate on battery power only in zero-emissions mode, such as in the world heritage fjords in Western Norway. ZF 2050 marine gears, for example, allow the diesel-electric, plug-in tour boat Vision of the Fjords to operate solely driven by electric power when operating in the fjords. This is in line with the Norwegian Parliament’s resolution to halt emissions from cruise ships and ferries in these Norwegian fjords as soon as technically possible and no later than 2026. Such regulations and operations could serve as low- and zero-emissions models for other regions.
From a shipbuilder’s and designer’s perspective, the ZF 8000 transmission’s modular, compact design minimises installation space and weight and allows for a flexible installation in the vessel’s hull. Additionally, ZF Marine offers a parallel installation with a vertical offset and a down-angle concept to provide ship designers and builders greater flexibility when designing new vessels or retrofitting existing ones.
At German trade fair SMM 2022 in Hamburg in September, ZF unveiled a new hybrid version of the ZF AT 80 azimuth thruster for tugs, ferries, jack-ups and research vessels. ZF uses an electric motor placed at the upper gearbox’s PTI whose performance is tailored to the individual vessel type and application. It allows for full electric sailing and manoeuvring, which is especially useful in ports or waterways with strict emissions and noise regulations.
The ZF AT 80 is equipped with a special seal arrangement designed for biodegradable oil (EAL). Set up in a L-drive configuration such as a retractable or tunnel thruster, the ZF AT 80 is also available as a purely electrically driven solution.
Riviera Maritime Media’s Maritime Hybrid, Electric & Hydrogen Fuel Cells Conference will be held 17-19 October 2023 in Bergen, Norway. Use this link for further information and to register your interest
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