ABB, a leading power and automation technology group, has launched a new propulsion drive. The NektonDrive is a low-voltage variable speed drive specially designed for demanding marine applications. It comes with a power range from 710 to 5700 kW at 690V AC.
The NektonDrive helps vessels use electrical power more efficiently, according to ABB, and so minimises the environmental impact of operations.
The drive is liquid-cooled and built into a compact dust-proof cabinet, which cuts the need for high power air conditioning where it is installed. To prevent dust from entering the power circuits, the upper section of the cabinet is kept closed during installation. The lower part of the cabinet holds separate cabling entries and the vibration dampers are accessible from outside the cabinet.
Management of the unit’s life-cycle and preventive maintenance were key factors when designing the NektonDrive, ABB said. The installed cabinet provides accessibility through the front and no servicing is necessary from the side or back. A reduced number of types of spare parts and the capability for remote diagnostics should help to give a minimum downtime throughout the vessel’s lifetime.
This post was sourced from IHS Maritime 360: View the original article here.
