Skip to main content
Maritime

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
Skip to content
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: Ensures compact and excellent hydrodynamic efficiency due to patented low drag nozzle.
  • Environmental impact and underwater radiated noise (URN): Vessels with RD-AZ have proven to comply with strict URN requirements.
  • Direct Coupling: Motor directly coupled to the propeller ensures quick response with no need for mechanical driveline or gears. The only moving part is the propeller.
  • 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:  Excellent manoeuvrability.
  • 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, excellent reliability and no propeller driveline.

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, 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)

Request information

Lifecycle support for your vessel

  • 24/7 Technical support

    Get expert help anytime, anywhere—our global support team is available 24/7 to assist you.

  • Training

    Explore our training programs to build skills, ensure safety, and maximize operational efficiency.

Downloads

Related products and categories