Propulsion: Sharrow By Veem

 

Sharrow Marine, a subsidiary of Sharrow Engineering LLC, the industry leader in innovative marine propulsion technology, announced today a significant advancement in its partnership agreement with Australia-based Veem Ltd, a designer and manufacturer of disruptive, high-technology marine propulsion and stabilization systems. After months of collaborative design work and testing of Sharrow by Veem prototype designs on Veem’s 64’ Viking test vessel, the companies confirmed that the key benefits of the Sharrow Propeller over conventional propellers can be replicated for inboard vessel applications. Sharrow and Veem have verified that the results of the rigorous testing, specifically improved fuel efficiency, a significant reduction in vibration and noise, improved handling, and excellent reverse thrust meet the contractual criteria for progression to the next phase in their partnership. Both parties are now committed to, and working toward, the manufacture and sale of the Sharrow by Veem range of propellers for inboard vessels, focusing initially on fulfilling pre-orders to ensure the bespoke designs are optimized for each vessel and then testing the propellers upon installation to validate the comparative results. This data will be critical for expanding the wide range of applications for inboard vessels globally. This rollout signifies a breakthrough in commercial marine propulsion and enables expanded defense opportunities in Australia and the US, particularly regarding reduced noise and vibration, and operational performance of military vessels. Additionally, both companies recognize the potential of this technology to contribute to global sustainability efforts. The Sharrow by Veem propellers align with international initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and marine noise pollution, promising a more sustainable future for marine transportation.

www.sharrowmarine.com

Propulsion: Sharrow Marine CX

Sharrow Marine, the industry leader in innovative marine propulsion technology, announces the opening of preorders for the highly anticipated Sharrow CX™ Propeller for contra-rotating sterndrives and outboards, with estimated shipping in the Spring of 2026. The Sharrow CX Propeller is an extension of the patented and award-winning Sharrow Propeller lineup and brings the company’s innovative technology to contra-rotating applications.  Owners of runabouts, bowriders, and cruisers equipped with Volvo, Mercury, or Suzuki outboards or sterndrives that require sets of contra-rotating propellers will find Sharrow’s CX Propeller particularly appealing, as it offers enhanced efficiency with superior agility and maneuverability, and is customized to each boat’s specifications. The dual contra-rotating design optimizes lift and control, ensuring a smooth and responsive boating experience.  Crafted with precision and excellence, the Sharrow CX is CNC machined in the USA from premium stainless steel alloy, and LAB finished to over ten times the industry standard of accuracy to blueprint specifications. Each propeller is backed by a Lifetime Warranty, providing peace of mind against manufacturing flaws or defects. Additionally, customers can opt for the comprehensive Sharrow Care™ Protection Plan, covering repair costs in the event of accidental damage while in use.  Data for the Sharrow Marine CX is not yet published, but the single propellers for outboards have seen some interesting gains in better efficiency at cruise, silent running, and up to eight knots gain in top speed. 

www.sharrowmarine.com

Propulsion: Volvo IPS 40

Volvo Penta IPS range introduces a new, larger marine drive, the IPS 40. The new Volvo Penta IPS 40 drive is designed with a pioneering dual power input concept, which manages the power to the water in the most efficient way, but also acts an important enabler to utilize different combinations of energy sources. Starting series production in 2025, the new Volvo Penta IPS 40 drive will be powered by two Volvo Penta D13 1000hp engines, paired with a compact after treatment system to comply with the latest IMO Tier III standards. But, the platform is already prepared for a mix of power sources; from combustion engines running on renewable fuels to fully electric or hybrid solutions. The dual power input design offers flexibility and modularity on the journey towards increased sustainability. The new Volvo Penta IPS 40, as usual to the IPS platform can be installed as twin, triple or quad, meaning each vessel will have from 4 to 8 power sources. The complete package from helm to propeller is designed, verified and serviced by one integrator Volvo Penta. Volvo IPS 40 can be fitted on vessel from from 25 to 55 meters, dual up to twin 1000hp engines per driveline, twin, triple or quad drivelines and up to 8000hp per vessel, new counter-rotating propeller series in bronze, possibility to install to displacement, semi-planning and planning vessels and speeds from twelve to forty knots, steering angle up to forty degrees with dual electrical steering motors, Gear ratio 2.91, and integrated package with compact SCR system

www.volvo.com

Propulsion: Volvo DPI

Volvo introduces the new DPI stern drive a replacement to the DPH stern drive in powering the D4 and D6 engines.  The new DPI stern drive is designed around joystick maneuverability with enhanced hydraulic clutch which enables slipping at slow speeds, and full electronic steering.  Servicing has also been improved with seals now being designed for a longer life and interval change of every two years up from a year. 

www.volvopenta.com

Propulsion: Yanmar ZT370

Yanmar is launching a full line-up of 4LV sterndrive marine diesel engine models to complete its highly-acclaimed 4LV series of ultra-refined common rail engines. The new 150 to 250hp five-engine range combines with the new Yanmar ZT370 sterndrive to offer exceptional acceleration, fuel efficiency, remarkably quiet operation, and low vibration to suit a wide variety of vessels. Complementing the Yanmar 4LV inboard engine range introduced earlier this year, the corresponding 150Z/170Z/195Z/230Z/250Z horsepower sterndrive models feature the very latest in electronically-managed CR fuel injection systems. This next generation system uses Thermo Swing Wall Insulation technology to provide maximum thermal efficiency, leading to more complete combustion, adding efficiency in fuel consumption, torque and lowered emissions. The 150 to 250hp power range marine diesel engines are all based on an identical engine block with the same dimensions and weight, making it easy for boat builders to install various options.  The new models are fitted with the Yanmar ZT370 sterndrive with hydraulic multi-disc clutch for exceptionally smooth and quiet gear engagement, plus standard Exo hard-anodization coating to provide exceptional protection against corrosion. Ensuring optimal performance for a range of boats for recreational and light duty commercial applications, the ZT370 sterndrive is available in various gear ratios. Other features include precision-forged gears with extra-long service life, the choice of electrical or mechanical shift models, and an integrated exhaust system.

www.yanmarmarine.com

Propulsion: ZF Project Disruption

ZF's global Marine and Special Driveline Technology business unit introduced the Project Disruption concept to the public on the opening day of the 2017 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. The new propulsion concept introduces contra-rotating technology to conventional inboard shaft line applications.  The Project Disruption concept allows shaft line boat builders to harness the benefits of contra-rotating propellers, including increased efficiency, acceleration and reverse authority. The concept changes all of the pre-established constraints of trying to optimize propeller diameter with gear ratio.  The concept, intended to interface with a standard ZF marine transmission, is comprised of a strut-housed underwater gearbox which transmits power to two contra-rotating propellers.  In addition to providing increased efficiency and acceleration, Project Disruption's contra-rotating propellers will allow boat builders to consider a wider range of transmission ratios than what is possible today given propeller sizing constraints for single propeller shaft-lines. This will allow naval architects the opportunity to better optimize the propeller to gear ratio relationship depending on vessel application and loads. The contra-rotating propellers will also offer improved reversing performance and low speed maneuvering by eliminating the propeller torque that currently affects single shaftline applications.  While initially sized for tow sports boats, the concept could be extended to larger propulsion packages, or hybrid systems for a multitude of vessel applications.

www.zf.com

Propulsion: Volvo IPS30

Volvo Penta has augmented its Inboard Performance System IPS pod design, to match the class-leading performance of its latest and most powerful diesel engine the new D13-1000.  The remodeled IPS pod drive by Volvo Penta named IPS30 sees new and upgraded features to complement the company’s latest 13-liter 1000hp engine, to provide world-class performance. The redesigned pod is part of the company’s exciting breakthrough into a higher power category for its marine leisure segment, enabling yachts of up to 120ft to benefit from its excellent capabilities. The IPS30 pod has been updated to ensure it is a perfect match for the new design of the D13 engine. Overall, these enhancements make the pod cleaner, tougher, able to handle a wide speed range, while retaining the compact dimensions of existing IPS drives.  The IPS30 pod and its co-ordination with the 13-liter engine sees the production of the D13-IPS1350 integrated package; the 1350 refers to the equivalent amount of horsepower produced from the unit, when compared to a traditional inboard shaft engine installation. The package is a complete system from helm to prop, with a technologically advanced design that has twin counter-rotating forward-facing propellers that sit below the hull for enhanced grip. The unique design, with individually steerable pods that are linked to the on-board Joystick Docking function, creates precision maneuverability.  The IPS package provides up to 30 per cent lower fuel consumption compared to inboard shaft installations up to 15 per cent faster acceleration and 20 per cent higher top speed; noise and vibration levels are reduced by up to 50 per cent. An IPS package can be installed in twin, triple or quadruple configuration, and of the latter, the power produced is equivalent to 5400hp. 

www.volvopenta.com

Propulsion: Top System TT

Topsystem presents an innovative system to surface drives with a variable direction to planing boats to high performances of research and development activity lasting years. The peculiar qualities of Topsystem transmissions are represented by the shape and size of the drives besides the particular section of the directional fin. This combination induces less hydrodynamic drag than a comparable propulsion allowing an influx of more clean water for the propeller. All this translates into greater efficiency and hence a better final push. Through partnerships with leading companies in the electronics industry and the marine automation Top System has been enhanced with added value optional aimed at simplifying the use of surface propellers, and can be installed on the entire TopSystem propulsion range which goes from 200 to 4000hp. The best known is the electronic system Easytrim produced and developed in partnership with Onyx: this management software automatically adjusts the position of the propulsion depending on the boat loading conditions and the engine acting on trim and flap. Even the driving style can be customized also depending on sea conditions and the use of the touch-screen display. Obviously the manual controls are always available to ensure maximum driving pleasure in the pursuit of best performance. 

www.topsystemdrive.com

Propulsion: Volvo FWD

A revolutionary new concept in marine propulsion, the first Volvo Penta Forward Drive (FWD), debuted at an exclusive event at the Miami International Boat Show. Opening up a new realm for recreational water sports, the Volvo Penta FWD begins with forward-facing dual counter-rotating props with an adjustable-trim drive. This patented and innovative design pulls the boat through the water rather than pushing, with an undisturbed water flow to the propellers. This clean and efficient propulsion system delivers superior responsiveness, acceleration, fuel economy and versatility, allowing for an array of activities behind the boat, including wakesurfing and wakeboarding. Drivers will also be able to customize the wake for different ability levels and feel the difference in tighter high-speed turns, as well as more responsive slow-speed maneuvering and docking. Additionally, the forward-facing DuoProp, with counter-rotating propellers, offers a unique and industry-first symmetrical wake-boarding wake and equally shaped wake-surfing wave on your side of choice. FWD also reduces noise and vibration, and virtually eliminates annoying fumes on deck since engine exhaust is expelled underwater beneath the boat. The adjustable tilt makes it easy to trim the boat for optimum fuel efficiency and comfort when cruising. When at rest with the drive trimmed down, the forward-facing propellers are inboard of the boat making activities like fishing and swimming more practical astern of the boat.  The Volvo Penta FWD, coupled with the new-generation marine gas engines, is an unbeatable combination for boat builders, providing higher speeds and better performance with a smaller, lighter engine. The engine and drive system are proven and feature accessible service points for easier maintenance.  Dealers and boat owners will also benefit from the commonality of parts across the full range of engines and drives. Most importantly, the builder, dealer and customer have the peace of mind that comes with a fully integrated helm-to-prop solution designed, built and supported by a single manufacturer with an unmatched reputation for customer satisfaction and after-the-sale customer service.  The new Volvo Penta FWD and gas engines are covered by Volvo Penta’s warranty with five years of factory protection. The Volvo Penta FWD has been tested and developed with several key boat-builder partners. New boat models featuring FWD will be available starting in 2015.

www.volvo.com

Propulsion: Cat Three60 Pod 650

Caterpillar Marine presents a significant product milestone the Cat Three60 Pod 650, which is specifically designed for the new Cat C8.7 electronically controlled marine propulsion engine. The new Cat Three60 Pod 650 revolutionizes docking and slow-speed maneuvering for diesel-powered yachts, and sees the US engine manufacturer entrance into propulsion. Available in spring 2015, the pod is specifically designed to be remarkably easy for customers to learn, with easy ‘push, twist and go’ maneuvering. The Cat Three60 Pod 650 incorporates proprietary technology providing vessel operators with access to full or incremental power in any direction as well as smooth shifting from forward to reverse. The pod joystick and lever head provide smooth operation and high confidence when maneuvering utilizing two modes: lever mode and joystick mode. The lever mode controls the pod propeller drive trains using the lever head, while pod vectoring is controlled by the digital steering helm. In joystick mode, the joystick controls engine speed, gear and pod angle using intuitive fingertip movements of the joystick for slow vessel maneuvering. The new pod is specifically designed for the Cat C8.7 turbocharged/supercharged diesel engine. Developed in tandem with Fiat Powertrain Technologies, the compact C8.7 delivers an impressive 650hp at 2300 RPM while meeting EPA Tier 3, IMO II, and EU Stage IIIA emissions requirements.

www.cat.com

Propulsion: Rolls-Royce Azipull

The Azipull combines the advantages of the pulling propeller with the flexibility of mechanical drive, and can be linked to any prime mover; diesel, gas turbine or electric motor, dependent on individual customer requirements. It is designed to offer efficient propulsion and maneuvering on higher speed vessels. The streamlined leg and skeg recover swirl energy from the slipstream, raising overall propulsive efficiency. The leg has a wide chord to optimism rudder effect and improve course stability. Azipull is available with a controllable or fixed pitch propeller. Control Pitch propellers give greater flexibility with regard to prime mover selection. With fixed pitch propeller selection the Azipull units must be integrated to the ship and designed into the hull form for the best results, with reduced hull insertion loads.  The upper gear housing, steering gear and auxiliaries are from the standard Rolls-Royce azimuth truster range to maximize spares commonality. Rolls-Royce Azipull is available in four models AZP085, AZP100, AZP120, and AZP150. Azipull models can take from 900 up to 5000hp, and are so far directed more towards commercial vessels.  

www.rolls-royce.com

Propulsion: Voith Inline Propulsor

The initial idea was to develop a propulsion system with minimum vibration and noise emissions. The result is a rim driven propeller powered by a permanent-magnetic electric motor. The thruster system requires neither axle nor shaft or gearing. VIPs impress by their prompt steering and can also be retrofitted as propulsion systems or thrusters. If required, the propeller blades can be replaced individually. That is fascinating technology lending itself to a wide variety of applications. Voith Inline Propellers are used as propulsion systems for passenger boats, barges and large yachts. The Voith Inline Propulsor systems are driven by an integrated permanent magnetic synchronous ring motor.  The motor windings are housed in the stator, the permanent magnets are housed in the rotor. The rotor is supported by water-lubricated bearings for the radial and axial load. The propeller blades made from Carbon Fibre-Reinforced Plastic are directly connected to the inner ring of the rotor, which eliminates the need for a central shaft or gearbox. The sense of rotation, as well as the speed, is controlled by frequency converters. Thruster housings are pressure-tested to verify water tightness and are filled with resin to encapsulate all electric parts and permanent magnets.  The Voith Inline Propulsor is available in nine units from 67 up to 2010hp.

www.voith.com

Propulsion: Reintjes Fortjes 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000

Reintjes from Germany has come with a new innovative pod drive drive system suitable for yachts from fifteen up to 36 meters in length. The Fortjes drive system consists of an upper reversing gearbox, a foundation plate and a non steerable pod with two counter-rotating propellers. Ideal flow conditions are achieved by means of an asymmetrical shaft. This effect is enhanced even further by two counter-rotating propellers. This not only results in considerably reduced cavitation but also in an almost irrational flow at the rudder blade, which makes the drives far more efficient and wear-resistant than other system types. The fixed-pod design, as opposed to steerable pods, has a positive effect on the sailing stability. In practice, this becomes obvious instantaneously. Also in challenging power ranges, the yacht can be safely handled and precisely manoeuvred, which makes the boating experience even more enjoyable and increases the comfort. With its extremely compact design Fortjes not only contributes to a considerable weight reduction, but also saves a lot of space: a drive system with a 5000 series, as compared to a conventional fixed-propeller drive with a propulsive power of 2600hp, needs two meters less installation space and provides the designer with additional room for individual configurations. The Reintjes Fortjes system also offers advantages to shipyards: All components can quickly and easily be integrated into the ship’s hull within just four hours.  Here the specially developed installation system plays a crucial role. It takes up the gearbox in the engine room and, below the waterline, forms the basis for mounting the pod. After the foundation plate has been built into the hull, the gearbox and the pod can be connected with each other. The installation costs of this drive train are considerably lower. An important note is that the Fortjes drive system has been designed for use in different hull forms and is compatible with all customary engines.  Yachts with a Fortjes drive can be traditionally steered using a steering gear and engine control or, optionally and very elegantly, via a joystick. All steering and control functions, including those for bow thrusters and stern thrusters, can be integrated in one control system.  The German Reintjes Fortjes is available so far in five versions; 1000 up to 670hp, 2000 up to 938hp, 3000 up to 1200hp, 4000 up to 2000hp, and 5000 up to 2600hp.  There is also at works the smi custom 6000 unit which can be available for larger horsepower engine. 

www.fortjes.com  

Propulsion: Flexitab FlexiDrive

A new concept of semi-submerged propulsion system composed by three typologies. The target of Flexitab engineers, in the field of pleasure craft, is aimed to improve the safety and the efficiency of the navigation, with all kind of boats. Flexidrive is an innovative propulsion system composed by a “body”, made of composite material: all the hydraulic components are enclosed inside and all the mechanical parts are connected to. Flexidrive is based on semi-submerged propellers concept, created and developed to increase the performances of the boat and its manouvrability; to help the installation and to enhance the efficiency. The research program called Flexidrive is built up from the cooperation among Flexitab, Victory Design and the University of Genoa and Naples. Developed specifically for pleasure craft, Flexidrive has been tested on the Dart, a 46 mono-hull totally designed by Victory Design. This boat, with two 600hp diesel engines, reached a maximum speed around 10 knots more than any other boat of equal displacement propelled by immersed propellers and a minimum planing speed of 12 knots. Flexidrive assured also an incredible manouvrability in port, same as traditional propulsion systems. Flexidrive has been designed using the Finite Element Method which allows for optimization of structures in terms of maximum resistance and minimum weight. The Flexidrive body is made of composite materials; the propeller axis case is made of light aluminium alloy with anti-corrosional surface treatment. Flexidrive has three range of products. Energy for working boats, super yachts and high-displacement fisherman. This family has fixed drive and is designed to reach the maximum performance at medium-low speed usual for this kind of boats. It is available in 6 models, with an indicative power range from 300hp to 2800hp. Power for planing pleasure and high-speed working boats, such as contemporary open and fast guard-ship. This family has a trimmable drive to improve the performance of the hull and to reach the best result during all kind of navigation. Flexitab engineers worked to obtain the maximum manouvrability, quick planing and tacking. It is available in 5 models, with an indicative power range from 500hp to 2800hp. Speed created for light displacement and very fast boats (like, for example, the offshore and the fast-commuter), single and multi-hull. Like the Power models, also Speed family has trimmable drive and the external steering system is made of light aluminium alloy with a special high-tensile stainless steel rudder. It is available in 2 models, with an indicative power range from 500hp to 1500hp. Power and Speed models have the trimmable drive. In this way the driver has always the control of the boat, correcting the trim during the navigation in every sea state. The advantages are many: better cruising comfort, less fuel consumption and better performances. As all the Flexitab components, also the Flexidrive has been designed to facilitate the shipyard work: the installation is fast and easy and doesn’t require any compromise for the hull design.

www.flexitab.com

Propulsion: ZF Pod 2800

ZF Marine Group introduces a revolutionary new approach to Pod drive and joystick control technology in small pleasure craft applications, which extends its availability to a larger segment of the pleasure boat market. In conjunction with SeaVee boats, ZF Marine has developed a complete propulsion system solution around a center console sport fishing application that will offer joystick control and maneuverability while employing the pleasure craft industry’s first single Pod drive line. The heart of the propulsion package from ZF Marine incorporates 3 main components. The ZF 2800 Series Pod drive rated at 480hp. This Pod has been redesigned to offer 180 degrees of total movement, 90 degrees of rotation to both port and starboard from the cent reline. The ZF 185 AC Thruster that introduced to the market at last year’s Fort Lauderdale show. The ZF 185 Thruster is designed to offer proportional thrust, 30 minute continuous duty cycle, and smooth, quiet operation thanks to a patented thruster tube design. ZF Marine’s proven SmartCommand controls with Joystick. The joystick system is engaged when the Easidock feature is activated via a button touch on the SmartCommand control head. During normal at sea operation the 2800 Pod drive is restricted to 30 degrees of movement in either direction from center. This restriction of movement is released in Easidock mode and the POD now has full 180 degree movement. The ZF 185 AC Thruster is also brought online at this time. As the vessel operator directs the joystick in any direction or combination of directions the joystick system incorporates POD thrust and varying amounts of thrust from the bow thruster. Proportional control of the thruster means smooth engagement, and only as much thrust as needed to move the vessel in the desired direction. Proportional thrust, combined with an electronic compass tied to the main JMS control unit means there is no vessel yaw during sideways movement. ZF Marine’s patented iAnchor station keeping functionality is also included in the Single Pod System. With the press of a button, iAnchor will compensate for wind and current holding the vessel’s position to as little as a 3 foot radius.
www.zf.com

Propulsion - Volvo IPS1050, IPS1200

In 2005, Volvo Penta’s pioneering IPS system created a completely new marine segment, so-called pod installations. With forward-facing and efficient propellers, the IPS system is the undisputed market leader in pod installations, and has created an alternative to traditional shaft installations. The first stage of the IPS system was based on Volvo Penta’s 4 and 6-litre diesel engines. Last year, two new power classes were launched with larger drive units based on Volvo’s 11-liter engines. This year, Volvo Penta is launching a third stage based on the Volvo Group’s 13-litre engines. The two new IPS drive packages generate the equivalent of 1,050 and 1,200 horsepower, respectively, compared with conventional inboard installations. This means that Volvo Penta can now offer the IPS system for boats all the way up to 100+ feet. The engine for the new power classes is Volvo Penta’s 13-liter engine equipped with dual-stage turbo technology, the D13, developing 800 and 900 horsepower, respectively. This 13-liter engine has been developed and designed with the help of ultramodern diesel engine technology.

www.volvo.com

Propulsion: Konrad PRSIII

The Konrad PRSIII is an alternative for aging Mercruiser Speedmaster III series drives. It has greatly simplified the conversion process of the SSMIII, with just a few easy steps. Most conversions can be completed in a matter of just a few hours. Konrad PRSIII has a high performance duty classification with a use of 100 hours per year for high performance applications at highly intermittent operation. Gross weight to horsepower is less than 12.2 kg per hp. The PRSIII is fitted with roller bearings spaced for optimum load carrying shaft supports capabilities, highly manufactured castings heat treated aluminum, high strength alloy steel gears utilizing performance marine technology, shafts made of alloy steel, and U-joints made from industry leading size for increased load carrying capacity and extended life. The Konrad PRSIII stern drive comes fitted with the following standard equipment: 540 HD upper housing assembly, 540 HP lower housing assembly, HD bell housing with bellows, and external steering back cover. The following options are available from Konrad: X-Factor lower housing assembly, drive extension spacer kits, HP upper gear set, tie bars, propellers, 42 oz. HP oil reservoir, and stern drive lifting bracket.

www.konradmarine.com

Propulsion: Konrad 560 Twin Prop

Konrad Marine of Hudson, WI USA is proud to introduce the latest addition to its robust 500 Series, the Konrad 560 Twin Prop. This stern drive package was designed to handle gasoline or diesel engine torque and was engineered to gain efficiency by sharing the torque load with dual propeller technology. Counter rotating propellers reduce propeller roll, greatly increasing low speed maneuverability for superb docking and substantially improving handling in reverse. The 560 reduces propeller slip, increasing fuel economy and top speed. With its state of the art engineering and highest quality components, the 560 is capable of exceeding commercial market demands. The Konrad 560 Twin Prop drive features two, one piece stainless steel propeller shafts, fitted with line protection seals. The specially designed stainless steel propellers vary in pitch up to a 16“ maximum diameter. The major components are manufactured in-house at Konrad, including the gear sets of high grade aircraft quality steel, heavy duty drive shafts and high quality, heat treated aluminum castings. To ensure customer satisfaction, Konrad tests all their stern drives for heat, noise and vibration prior to leaving their plant. Konrad’s 560 Twin Prop counter rotating drive is based on the military proven 520 with a heavy duty transom assembly. The 560 twin prop offers boat enthusiasts a complete propulsion system for the rigors of recreational and commercial duty on single engine vessels weighing up to 11,000 lbs. The 560 and all other Konrad stern drives are made in the U.S.A.

www.konradmarine.com

Propulsion: Steyr Motors EDS System

This sophisticated mechanical device gives the boat owners the opportunity to engage a mechanical rack mover by a shifting cable in case of emergency. This can be for example a complete breakdown of the board electric system including engine, and engine control panel. Finally the Steyr engine will run the boat home on a safety mode. For the time being there is no other electronically controlled marine engine besides a Steyr Diesel on the market which offers this feature. The EDS guarantees the highest safety standard and makes you independent from any other complicated additional propulsion system. This Steyr option has been developed specifically to satisfy the highest requirements of life and rescue boat builders for their SOLAS related products. There is also a high demand and many inquiries from leisure boat builders and blue water sailboat owner who want to offer the maximum safety available on the market. EDS Mechanical Energy Drive System is worldwide unique and available for the whole range of Steyr Marine Diesel 4 and 6 cylinder engines, based on Mono block and High Pressure Unit Injectors fully developed its own engineering department. It is representing the most innovative and professional backup solution for all kind of applications for commercial and leisure boat operation.

www.steyr-motors.com

Propulsion: ZF Pod 4000

A third pod new propulsion system from ZF with the 4000 model, suitable for large yachts powered by engines up to 1200hp. The new large ZF pod unit has been jointly developed by ZF Marine, Azimut-Benetti Group and Lazzara Yachts. The system has been successfully tested on a 62S from Azimut and is about to be installed as triple configuration in the new 120 foot super sport yacht from Lazzara Yachts. The system comprises a standard transmission mounted to a steerable pod unit with twin, counter-rotating propellers. The ZF Pod 4000 is compact and lightweight and represents the latest evolution of podded drives already on the market, from which it distinguishes itself by an innovative and patented system which keeps the vessel at a given position. The advantages of this third member of the ZF Pod are numerous, particularly regarding the performance. The superior efficiency of the ZF Pod, compared to traditional propulsion systems, results in increased cruising speed of up to 15% with the same installed power. This improved performance is accompanied by up to 20% reduction in fuel consumption, with corresponding environmental benefits. Concerning the maneuverability when docking, the ZF Pod is controlled by a joystick which is connected to an integrated electronic control system. All functions are therefore controlled simply and intuitively, for easy and safe handling of the vessel. Each pod unit is independently steered, guaranteeing excellent stability when executing turns. When cruising, maneuverability is exceptional, thanks to an electronically controlled steering system which actuates the Pod either for comfortable cruising, or more aggressive driving. The ZF Pod 4000 is suitable for large yachts from sixty to one hundred twenty feet powered by engines up to 1200hp each. The system has many advantages, in particular higher efficiency compared to traditional systems, increased maneuverability, more comfort on board with more space available for accommodation and a significant reduction of noise and vibrations. These are all benefits which are appreciated by owners of today's luxury yachts. The standard ZF Pod comes complete with a GPS position keeping system, whereby controlled actuation of the pod units enables the vessel to automatically maintain a set position, even in the presence of wind and currents. Also, regarding safety, the ZF Pod has significant advantages because the body of the unit itself protects the aft facing propellers from floating debris. The compact dimensions of the unit significantly increase the available space on board and the anti-vibration brackets, connecting the ZF Pod to the hull, greatly reduce vibration and noise. On board comfort is naturally an important factor when choosing a yacht, and according to the latest developments in the market, an ever more inviting and comfortable environment is demanded, to increase the enjoyment of cruising. The introduction of ZF Pod's third version underlines the commitment of the ZF Marine Group to offer the most advanced technological solutions, today more oriented towards energy saving, reduced environmental impact and improved comfort on board. The performance and advantages of this new innovative propulsion system have convinced also the Beneteau Group to chose the ZF Pod 4000 for a new line of their yachts.

www.zf-marine.com