With New ZF AT 50 Series.
ZF’s new azimuth thruster provides propulsion for vessels with power outputs of up to 815 kW per single unit and a bollard pull of up to 28 tonnes with a twin thruster installation. The new gear and casing design make the ZF AT 50 up to 17 per cent more efficient than comparable systems. Availability in all installation configurations, plus a variety of add-ons, makes it ideal for a wide array of vessel types.
“For us, great design is a systematic approach. We anticipate what our customers and their markets need – and then get to work achieving it”, said Jeroen Vedder, Business Development Manager at ZF Krimpen, The Netherlands. After the recent success of its larger siblings, the ZF AT 80 and AT 90, ship builders looked for a similar propulsion solution for less powerful engine and vessel types. “And naturally, we were more than happy to provide,” Vedder added.
The ZF AT 50 is available as a well-mounted, deck-mounted and stern-mounted type, as well as tunnel or retractable thruster, plus configurable as either an L- or Z-Drive. A flat and lean design saves on installation space. “This, coupled with its efficiency, makes it the perfect fit for many different vessel types”, said Vedder. Vessel designers and shipbuilders profit from the added flexibility when developing everything from tugs and ferries to super-yachts. “Of course, great design also encompasses scalable solutions,” concluded Vedder, “which is why we are currently working on the ZF AT 40, to be released by the end of 2024.”
