Navigate with confidence
Discover a power source you can rely on, engineered for the realities of modern vessels. With a compact design, PM motors fit seamlessly into tight onboard spaces, while quiet operation enhances comfort at sea. Despite their size, these motors deliver precisely the performance your fleet needs, backed by ABB’s marine expertise and global service network.
Developed by world-class engineering experts, permanent magnet propulsion solutions achieve industry-leading 98% energy efficiency while keeping sustainability front and center. Proven technology ensures operational security, complete documentation, and confidence in every mission. Paired with the ABB ACS880 liquid-cooled drive, the system further boosts performance while simplifying commissioning and support.
Key features and benefits
98% efficiency
<p>Industry-leading efficiency level to reduce operation cost and CO2 emission</p>Water-jacket cooling
<p>ABB’s most effective system protects the rotor, eliminating the need for a separate cooling structure</p>Highly customized design
<p>Strong engineering capability for single project, electrical performance and mechanical interface can be customized</p>Over three decades of PM expertise
<p>A consistent global platform backed by over 30 years of experience and a closely aligned ABB support team</p>Strictly controlled manufacturing
<p>Rigorous quality assurance process, with a complete testing procedure to ensure reliable product delivery</p>Compact, lightweight and low noise
<p>Up to 60% volume saving, ideal solution to fit narrow installation space</p>Products overview
Experience superior performance with ABB’s high-power permanent magnet motors. Designed for maximum reliability and space-saving efficiency, these units leverage water-jacket cooling to achieve up to 5 MW of output and premium efficiency levels. Fully optimized for variable speed drive (VSD) operation, they provide the flexibility of horizontal or vertical mounting to suit your specific industrial requirements.
| Frame size | 500 and 710 |
| Typical power range | Up to 5 MW |
| Torque range | Up to 6- kNm |
| Typical speed range | Max 1800 rpm |
| Voltage levels | Low voltage (< 1kV) |
| Type | Permanent magnet (PM) |
| Mounting | Horizontal and vertical |
| Cooling | Water jacket |
| Operation model | Motor and generator |
| Typical segment and application | Marine, propulsion, thruster and shaft generator |
Proven on every deck
<p>ABB’s permanent magnet motors are the foundation of modern ships’ propulsion systems. Trusted across a wide range of fleets, they deliver peak performance with optimized energy flow and minimal losses.</p>
PM motors are a highly efficient solution for offshore vessels due to their compact design and strong low-speed torque. They are widely used on OSV (offshore support vessels), PSV (platform supply vessels), AHTS (Anchor Handling Tug Supply Vessels), and Construction Support Vessels.
PM motors are an excellent fit for tugboats, where compact design and high torque deliver reliable low-speed performance. In main thruster applications, a twin azimuth setup with vertical motors provides efficient and precise manoeuvring power in demanding operations. With 1500–2500 kW and 700–1200 rpm, it delivers strong bollard pull and smooth control.
PM motors are well suited for close-to-shore applications, providing a compact, efficient propulsion for frequent starts, stops, and tight manoeuvring. Smooth torque delivery and responsive control ensure safe, reliable operation in busy coastal waters where precision and low energy consumption are key.
Inside the technology
Download the brochure to learn how to fit more power into less space and maximize your fleet’s operations.
What’s inside:
- Technical advantages: Discover why permanent magnet technology outperforms alternative solutions
- A legacy of innovation: Find out how over 130 years of ABB’s expertise has defined proven motors and generators
- Mission-ready performance: See why our motors consistently exceed expectations for reliability
- Key performance benefits: Understand how to power your vessels more efficiently and turn energy savings into real gains
Global Marine Support
ABB delivers global, marine-ready service support for PM motors, ensuring reliable performance across the oceans. Industry 4.0 connectivity, remote monitoring, and advanced analytics enable intelligent maintenance with real-time optimization, ensuring maximum uptime at sea. Backed by a worldwide service network, 24/7 remote assistance and local engineering experts, support is always within reach - wherever your fleet operates.