The latest in-line shaft generator from ABB will enable ship operators to benefit from the efficiency, performance and reliability advantages of permanent magnet technology.
The new generator brings flexibility and ease of installation to a wide range of vessels, including bulk carriers, container carriers, liquid natural gas tankers and ferries transporting passengers and cars.
Permanent magnet shaft generator
The AMZ 1400 permanent magnet shaft generator is optimised for converter control and enables better efficiency than either induction or electrically excited synchronous machines, at both full and partial loading. This helps to cut fuel costs by up to 4 percent, offering a payback period of two to four years. It also significantly reduces CO2 emissions by several tons for each day at sea.
Its compact size shrinks the footprint of the equipment package by around 20 percent, when compared to a conventional synchronous or induction type shaft generator. At the same time, the weight is reduced by around 30 percent.
Easy installation of the unit at the shipyard
ABB permanent magnet technology has proved to be inherently reliable over three decades in large motors"
The unit is also simpler to install at the shipyard, as the intermediate propulsion shaft is mounted to the generator and then lifted into the vessel for the alignment.
Juha-Pekka Kivioja, ABB’s Global Product Manager - Large Motors and Generators, said “ABB permanent magnet technology has proved to be inherently reliable over three decades in large motors and generators, especially in offshore wind turbines and propulsion applications.”
Energy efficiency and reduction in CO2 emissions
Juha-Pekka Kivioja adds, “Applying it to shaft generators is a significant step in helping vessel energy systems to align with the goals set out in the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI), Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) and Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII). Its potential to increase energy efficiency makes the permanent magnet shaft generator an important method for reducing emissions for larger vessels.”
There are three possible modes of operation for the shaft generator, in conjunction with the main propulsion engine. In Power Take Out (PTO) mode, it supplies the main power for the vessel’s electrical network. This optimises the use of the large engine, while reducing the need to run auxiliary generators, saving on fuel costs and lowering emissions.
Power Take In (PTI) mode
In Power Take In (PTI) mode the shaft generator acts as a synchronous motor for an additional power boost for propulsion. It can also provide Power Take Home (PTH) for emergency propulsion, should the main engine fail.
The permanent magnet shaft generator and drive combination can also power thruster motors, enable shore to ship connections and connect other DC power sources or DC power consumers. Under its first order, ABB will supply the permanent magnet shaft generators for a fleet of twelve 210,000 dwt dual-fuel bulk carriers, owned by Bermuda-based Himalaya Shipping.
ABB
ABB is a global technology company that energizes the transformation of society and industry
ABB is a global technology company that energizes the transformation of society and industry, in order to achieve a more productive, sustainable future.
By connecting software to its electrification, robotics, automation and motion portfolio, ABB pushes the boundaries of technology, to drive performance to new levels. With a history of excellence stretching back more than 130 years, ABB’s success is driven by about 105,000 talented employees in over 100 countries.
ABB Motion
ABB Motion keeps the world turning - while saving energy every day. They innovate and push the boundaries of technology, to enable the low-carbon future for customers, industries and societies. With their digitally enabled drives, motors and services, their customers and partners achieve better performance, safety and reliability.
ABB offers a combination of domain expertise and technology, to deliver the optimum drive and motor solution for a wide range of applications, in all industrial segments. Through their global presence, they are always close to serve their customers. Building on over 130 years of cumulative experience in electric powertrains, they learn and improve every day.