ABB has added an automated digital steering function for its Azipod electric propulsion systems, which aims to minimise fuel consumption and emissions by automatically selecting the optimal steering angle for maximum propulsion efficiency.
The technology automatically adjusts the steering angle to achieve continuous optimal flow through the propulsors, taking operational needs and working conditions into account.
The company claims that the ABB Ability OptimE – Toe Angle Optimization for Propulsion system can increase fuel savings by up to 1.5% depending on a ship’s operating profile, on top of the up to 20% cut in fuel consumption that can be achieved using Azipod propulsion compared with a traditional shaftline setup.
“Maximising the energy efficiency of assets is a top priority for ABB and we are delighted to demonstrate yet further fuel savings and emission reductions in our Azipod propulsion systems,” said Antto Shemeikka, Vice President Digital Services, ABB Marine & Ports.
“We view the ship as a system where hardware and software operate seamlessly together to deliver maximum efficiency. We believe that every shipowner using Azipod technology will want to capitalise on the further efficiency gains enabled by ABB Ability OptimE.”
