Azipod® has inspired naval architects to develop new ship designs and concepts that transform unique Azipod® propulsion advantages into safer, more environmental and profitable ships. Externally, Azipod® propulsion simplifies the hull and improves hydrodynamics. Internally, it creates the freedom to optimize the ship interior and maximize payload.
Low fuel consumption, low emissions and the opportunity to use almost any current or future energy source - dieselelectric, gas-electric or fuel cell technology, for example - make Azipod® propulsion ideal for developing and realizing green ship concepts.
Azipod® XO frees up valuable onboard space by locating the propulsion motors in submerged pods and eliminating long shaftlines, thruster systems and other onboard equipment. In addition, the modular electric power plant can be ideally located to allow for maximum cargo space. As a result, the Azipod® concept can increase payload by up to 10%.
Quantum of the Seas is the first vessel to utilize the bigger size XO units, Azipod® XO2300. To improve fuel efficiency with Quantum of the Seas, the Azipod® propulsion units now utilize for the first time stainless steel propellers in cruise vessel applications. This is because with stainless steel the propeller blades can be made thinner. Also the ABB developed “X-tail” and asymmetric fin for the pod are used for improving the water flow characteristics. One new feature is also to use variable speed drives to control the Azipod® cooling fans. By controlling the air flow according to cooling needs the fan motor energy consumption can be reduced.