AAAPropulsion will provide Damen Shipyards Group’s electric tugs with its A-Pod solution, in a strategic partnership announced this week.
The patented A-Pod is a 360° azimuthing thruster system with an integrated electric motor installed in the lower POD housing and cooled by the outer water.
Fitted beneath the hull, it is said to reduce drag and increase efficiency. Its lower center of gravity will also enhance ship stability, according to Damen.
Damen says it has delivered several fully electric tugs to clients around the world. Already able to operate with zero emissions, these vessels will reportedly benefit from the increased efficiency offered by the A-Pod.
Following the successful integration of the A-Pod into its electric tugs and workboats, Damen aims to expand use of the A-Pod system to other market segments. The solution is said to be suited to various applications, being available with a planetary gearbox (PG), as a direct-drive (DD) version or as the A-Pod CRP with contra-rotating propellers.
Jean-Pierre van Lankveld, category manager for propulsion at Damen, said, “We aspire to become the most sustainable, connected shipbuilder and maritime solutions provider in the world. One way in which we will achieve this goal is through collaboration with partners such as AAAPropulsion, who share our commitment to a cleaner and more efficient maritime future.”
Dick-Jan de Blaeij, CEO of AAAPropulsion, said, “We are very excited to enter this partnership with Damen. There is a clear synergy between our two organizations, particularly with regard to our shared vision of innovation and sustainability. We are looking forward to working together with Damen. Combining our strengths, we will explore the potential that exists to boost vessel efficiency.”
In related news, HHI and KSOE receive ABS approval for container ship with electric propulsion