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Maritime

Rim Drive Azimuth Thruster

Rim Drive Azimuth Thruster (RD-AZ)

The Rim Drive Azimuth Thruster (RD-AZ) integrates advanced features for improved efficiency, thereby reducing emissions and mitigating underwater noise. It is ideal for environmentally sensitive and performance-critical operations. The RD-AZ is well suited for offshore energy vessels and ocean research applications, plus a range of other vessels that require energy efficient positioning capability.

Rim Drive Azimuth Thruster
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Rim Drive Azimuth Thruster

Rim Drive Azimuth Thruster (RD-AZ)

  • Direct Electric Drive: Utilizes permanent magnet (PM) technology for high energy efficiency and a low environmental footprint.
  • Innovative Design: No internal cooling system or lubrication pumps needed, ensuring compactness and efficiency.
  • Direct Coupling: Motor directly coupled to the propeller, minimizing driveline losses.
  • 360-Degree Rotation: Provides outstanding vessel maneuverability.
  • Environmentally Approved Lubricants (EAL): Uses EAL, with a reduced lubrication oil volume—over 50% less than conventional thrusters.
  • Eco-Friendly: Designed to minimize environmental impact with energy-efficient and sustainable features.

Key Features and Benefits

Product Main Benefits

  • High Fuel Efficiency: Lower operational costs and reduced environmental impact.
  • Fast Response Time: Efficient roll-damping capabilities.
  • Reduced Noise and Vibration: Low-level vibrations and minimized airborne and hydroacoustic noise (URN) enhance onboard comfort and environmental compliance.
  • Excellent Maneuverability: Superior control for precise vessel navigation.
  • Strong Operational Support: Backed by robust customer service.
  • Reduced Lifecycle Costs: Economical long-term operation with extended service intervals.

Decarbonisation and Energy Efficiency:

  • The RD-AZ utilizes permanent magnet motor technology, which enhances energy efficiency and reduces the carbon footprint. Unlike traditional systems, it requires no internal cooling system and operates without lubrication pumps, resulting in significant energy savings.
  • The thruster supports the use of Environmentally Approved Lubricants (EAL), and its lubrication oil volume is reduced by over 60-70% compared to conventional azimuth thrusters, further minimizing environmental impact.

Technical data

RD-AZ-1900 RD-AZ-2300 RD-AZ-2600
Power (kW) 500 - 1100   1100-2000 1100 - 2600
Thruster (kN) 191kN at 0knot 344kN at 0knot 440kN at 0knot
RPM 252 227 200
Propeller diameter (mm) 1900 2300 2600
Propeller type Monobloc/FP Monobloc/FP Monobloc/FP
Direction of rotation CW/CCW CW/CCW CW/CCW
Drive AFE or 12-pulse drive AFE or 12-pulse drive AFE or 12-pulse drive
  • Approximate values, provided for information only. Actual thrust may vary for given applications.
  • De-rating may be required on 12-pulse drive installations.
  • All data is subject to change without prior notice.

Kongsberg Rim Drive Azimuth Thruster (RD-AZ) is formerly known as Permanent Magnet Azimuth Thruster (AZ-PM)

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