Azipod® propulsion for ferries

Azipod® propulsion was first introduced in 1990, since then becoming an industry benchmark in sustainable vessel technology. The Azipod® system, which extends below the hull of a ship, can rotate 360 degrees to increase maneuverability, efficiency and space available on board. Due to minimal noise and vibration, Azipod® propulsion also improves passenger and crew comfort.

In response to ferry and RoPax customer requests, ABB has filled the gap between the low and high-power range of Azipod® propulsors with the launch of a new series available in 7.5-14.5MW. With this expansion, the Azipod® propulsion family now covers the power range of 1-22MW.

Recent breakthrough orders in the ferry segment include the Azipod® propulsion system specified for an LNG-powered vessel due for delivery to Viking Line next year. Azipod® propulsion was also preferred by Wasaline for the recently ordered dual-fuel and battery power ferry, which will operate between Sweden and Finland.

Benefits for ship designers

Flexibility in design
Less engineering
Improved general arrangement
Easier noise and vibration management
ABB engineering support

For technical specifications, visit Azipod propulsion main page

Benefits for shipyard

Less components
Fast installation and reduced installation cost
Simpler steel structures
Later installation of main component
Smaller power plant

Benefits for owners and operators

Reduced life cycle cost due to savings in fuel and maintenance
Unbeatable maneuvering properties
Improved safety and reduced environmental impact
Increased payload/more efficient general arrangement
ABB customer support

Hydrodynamic benefits

Due to lack of shaftline, supporting brackets and tunnel thrusters, the pulling Azipod® propeller receives steady incoming water flow, resulting in less noise and vibration, and better efficiency.

Faster port approaches and departures

Ships equipped with Azipod® propulsion have superior manoeuvrability with the 360° steerable main propellers. Turning of the ship, crabbing, steering while decelerating and stopping are more effective, accurate and faster compared to conventional shaftline-rudder propulsion.

Below images shows an example from a simulator run, where turning in a dock with a 200-meter RoPax was six minutes faster with Azipod® propulsion.

Shaftline propulsion

Azipod® propulsion

For newbuilding projects, port and vessel specific time savings in manoeuvring can be estimated in ABB’s deck simulator facility in Helsinki, Finland. Customer representatives can make runs in a variety of different ports and see the differences between Azipod® and shaftline vessels for themselves.