The first set of 10 MW T-type pod thruster independently designed and manufactured by China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) 704 Research Institute, recently had a full-load dynamic test in Shanghai and and got a complete success. The pod thruster has realized 100% localization, marking China’s milestone innovation in the field of high-power pod propulsion technology, breaking through the international technical barriers, and demonstrating CSSC’s strong comprehensive strength in scientific and technological innovation and R&D, design and manufacturing.
Relying on the comprehensive scientific research strength of CSSC and giving full play to the overall advantages of the specialty, CSSC 704 Research Institute has set up a professional team to develop the pods, and has been carefully developing them in line with the international advanced products. CSSC 704 Research Institute adjusted the bracket structure from “L”-type to “T-type”, which makes its turning radius smaller under the same power level and requires less space on the hull, whereas the application field is more extensive.
CSSC 704 Research Institute has been deeply engaged in this field for more than 10 years, and has developed a series of pod thrusters with power ratings ranging from 400 kW to 10 megawatts (MW). The 2 MW class pod thruster developed by the institute has been applied on intelligent ships with excellent performance and received favorable comments. Recently, it has also obtained orders for scientific research teaching and protection vessels and polar research vessels, with favorable market prospects.
The pod thruster is a new type of ship electric propulsion device, adopting the “pod” type structural design, which combines the motor and propeller installed in a shell and suspended on the bottom of the hull, and can realize vector propulsion by 360 degrees full rotation. Compared with the traditional shaft system device, this propeller features good ship maneuverability, high operating efficiency, low maintenance cost and low energy consumption, etc. It is widely used in large cruise ships, research vessels, special operation vessels and other ships.