AZIPOD® PROPULSION SYSTEMS FOR ICE-CLASS VESSELS
When operating in heavy ice-conditions, propulsion needs to be safe, efficient, robust and most of all, reliable. Azipod® propulsion was originally developed to icebreaker needs and has ever since proved the excellence and reliability on ice operations providing unparalleled efficiency and safety for operations.
We have a portfolio of ice-specific solutions for vessels up to Polar Class 2 (PC2), including double-acting vessels. Azipod® ice-class propulsion systems are already propelling over 100 icebreaking vessels enabling extended ice channel operations, safe assisted navigation, and independent operation in ice.
AZIPOD® ICE-CLASS LOW-POWER RANGE (2-5 MW)
You need a robust electric-propulsion system when you are dealing with the most challenging ice conditions. Azipod® ICE and Azipod DI are designed with simplicity, strength and reliability at the forefront. Our azimuthing propulsion units are suitable for power up to 5 MW in a wide range of icebreaking vessels. The low-voltage motor has built-in high-efficiency, and the fixed-pitch propeller is mounted directly on the motor shaft. This means Azipod® ICE and Azipod® DI can be used with PC3 and PC4 vessels.
AZIPOD® ICE-CLASS HIGH POWER RANGE (6-17 MW)
Large high-performance vessels operating in extreme ice conditions demand propulsion systems built with true power and resilience. The Azipod® VI electric propulsion system is purpose-built for ice applications and is available in power ranges of 6-17 MW up to PC2 class. Direct driven podded propulsion allow for higher power outputs, and is the most robust, safe, reliable, and efficient option - even in the most challenging conditions.
AZIPOD® SERVICES - SUPPORTING YOUR ICE OPERATIONS
Keeping your Azipod® ice-class propulsion system working at full efficiency so you can depend on it whatever the circumstances is a key part of the service we offer. We take care of the lifecycle of a vessel with everything from spare parts to training of new Azipod® operators. These services also include Azipod® condition monitoring, preventive maintenance and dry-docking services, modernizations and upgrades, lifetime extensions and 24/7 technical support. Your service agreement is tailored to your needs.
REASONS TO BELIEVE
<p>Conventional shaft-driven vessels can struggle in ice, with consequences impacting safety, noise, stress, and drag. Azipod® electric propulsion systems for ice-class vessels and Azipod® ice-class podded-propulsion creates, improve safety for both independent and assisted operations.</p>
Ice-breaking and operational efficiency
<p>Azipod® enables the double-acting ship concept (Railotech DAS™) and thereby allows vessels to operate efficiently in both open water and heavy ice. Optimizing the ship’s bow for fuel efficiency in open water and the stern for icebreaking means vessels require up to 30 percent less installed power. </p>Better flushing capabilities for wide channels
<p>Azipod® propulsion ice-class electric pro-pulsion uses powerful propeller wash to flush broken ice away from the hull and stern. Fully steerable thrust spreads this effect across a wider area, creating broader, cleaner ice channels than conventional shaftline systems can.</p>Precision and safety
<p>Azipod® ice-class marine propulsion systems give ice-going vessels the ability to manoeuvre with high precision. This increases safety during operations following or escorting vessels as well as supporting smooth, efficient independent navigation in heavy ice conditions. </p>FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
<p>You’ll find the answers to some of the questions we are often asked about the ABB Azipod® ice-class range below. Our team is always available to answer any other questions you may have and offer guidance on suitable solutions for your circumstances. Please get in touch for more information.</p>
Azipod® is a registered trademark of ABB, an electric, azimuthing podded-propulsion system specifically engineered for vessels operating in extreme ice conditions. The electric motor is located within a submerged pod that rotates 360 degrees. It delivers thrust in any direction and dramatically improves ice navigation and manoeuvrability.
Azipod® outperforms traditional propellers by allowing vessels to operate efficiently both forward and astern. In heavy ice, double-acting vessels (DAS) can travel stern-first as the pulling propeller is more effective at clearing ice.
Aker Arctic DASTM operate bow-first in open water and stern-first in ice. This allows optimal hull shapes for fuel efficiency - while still delivering extreme icebreaking capability using Azipod® marine propulsion units.
Yes. Azipod® propulsion is a fully proven technology in Arctic and polar operations, with more than 150 ice-going vessels currently in service using Azipod® units. These include icebreakers, Arctic LNG carriers, research vessels, and ice-class cargo ships operating in some of the world’s harshest conditions. Azipod® systems have demonstrated reliable performance across millions of operational hours, including vessels up to PC2.
Yes, but only if they are properly designed and certified. Merchant vessels operating in winter Arctic or Antarctic conditions must meet the IMO Polar Code, carry a suitable ice-class, and have propulsion systems capable of delivering high torque, redundancy, and maneuverability in heavy ice.
Azipod® propulsion can be used in PC2 vessels, designed for year-round service in severe Arctic ice conditions. This capability makes Azipod® suitable for heavy icebreaking tasks, double-acting operations, and demanding polar routes where extreme torque, durability, and maneuverability are required.
Benefits include reduced fuel consumption, fewer mechanical components, lower maintenance demands, improved availability, and greater reliability in ice-class shipping.
Yes. It allows optimised hull forms for both open water efficiency and icebreaking. This enables double-acting designs without compromising fuel efficiency.
IT PAYS TO USE ABB
Our ABB Azipod® partners save money, energy, time, and emissions. Our ice-class marine propulsion systems give you greater opportunities to operate safely and efficiently. How can we help you save?