Transforming safety with electric propulsion

More manoeuvrability
The ability of Azipod® propulsion to rotate through 360 degrees delivers better manoeuvrability compared to traditional shaftline systems, allowing more precise navigation while saving fuel and time. The ABB Dynafin™ propulsion concept generates thrust by means of profiled blades that project from the bottom of the ship. Each blade can rotate both around the global axis of a main wheel and around its own local axis. The propulsor can also change thrust direction almost instantaneously, increasing vessel manouverability.

Safer emergency stops

ABB Ability™ Marine Braking Assistance enables emergency stops at the click of a button. The automated procedure ensures the vessel comes to a full stop in a fast and safe manner. It enables crew to stay focused on the situation and steer the vessel out of danger.

Safety in icy waters
Icebreaking ships equipped with Azipod® propulsion can navigate through ice with no need for a dedicated ice-breaking vessel – meeting the stringent Polar Code of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). Learn how a Norwegian coastguard vessel with Azipod® propulsion reached the North Pole.

Electrical benefits for conventionally propelled vessels
Vessels using conventional propulsion can also benefit from ABB electrical solutions. Tugs, for example, benefit from the immediate responsiveness and quick thrust of all-electric propulsion.

Enhancing crew safety

Multiple digital and automated solutions have been developed by ABB to improve crews’ working environment, overall safety and vessel performance.

• Simplified and safer control: ABB Ability™ Marine Pilot Control allows innovative assisted vessel control during all operational modes including manoeuvring, transit, and position-keeping using a joystick and touch screen.

• Other solutions, such as control software in ABB drives, allow safe operation of onboard winches and hoists to prevent rope tangles and overlaps.

Cargo safety

The safe transport of cargo is addressed by the ABB Ability™ OCTOPUS marine advisory system with the following benefits:

• Real-time decision support and motion monitoring. 
  
• Forecasting and monitoring the vessel’s movements, helping to avoid damage to, or loss of, cargo.
• Route optimization based on motion forecasts, ensuring safer and more efficient voyages. 

Creating safer living environments

Lower emissions around busy harbors are enabled by ABB’s Shore Connection solutions, available onshore in terminals and on board ships. NOx, and particulate matter, noise and vibration are all reduced. 

• ABB’s multiple solutions for a variety of ship types and different onshore requirements include direct-to-shore electrical connections where medium voltage systems are required. 
• On-shore energy storage to protect the local grid from power surges, increasing grid safety and security. 
• ABB’s shore connection technology removes the need for ships to use auxiliary diesel engines while docked.

Safety in numbers

ABB Ability™ Collaborative Operations ensure that vessels operating in remote or harsh environments, or carrying passengers, have access to remote diagnostic and on-call repairs, by integrating real-time data from multiple sources. 

Cross-geo experts working together with onboard teams and onshore staff can help identify and resolve potential issues, reducing the likelihood of accidents and improving maritime safety.