Plug and Play Bolsters Sustainability: ZF Presents New Marine Hybrid Module

Thanks to its new marine hybrid module, ZF simplifies electrification of new and existing ship designs. The key feature of the overall solution is a patented supporting frame – which, unlike the usual setup, eliminates the need for a separate base for the electric motor and for an offset-adjustment coupling. This plug-and-play approach, which is unrivaled in the market, reduces installation space and considerably simplifies the installation of the module and the maintenance of the electric motor. ZF will present the hybrid module at the Nor-Shipping trade fair (June 6-9 in Oslo). At the event, the drive specialist also celebrates the 50th anniversary of its Dutch marine location Krimpen.

High propulsion power, comparatively compact: In the new marine hybrid module, ZF combines its established ZF 3300 PTI transmission, which can cover a power range of up to 1,940 kW at 2,450 rpm, with an application-specific electric motor (in the options 150 kW, 200 kW and 300 kW). The key feature is an all-new supporting frame.

"This patented frame turns our drive solution into an amazing space-saving option," explains Alexander Thum, Product and System Development Hybrid Drives at ZF. The frame design eliminates the need for a separate base for the electric motor and for an offset-adjustment coupling between the components. A custom designed torsion clutch absorbs the torsional vibrations from the electric motor. The supporting frame also centers the electric motor in relation to the transmission.

Plug-and-play unit simplifies installation, supports electrification
This plug-and-play setup, which is unrivaled in the marine market, hugely simplifies the installation of the hybrid drive module and the maintenance of the electric motor. The drive also takes up much less installation space. This pays dividends particularly when designing yachts and ferries, where every square centimeter of available space counts. The hybrid module can also be combined with standard equipment, allowing existing ship platforms to be fitted and electrified with this module.

"This enables our customers to respond comparatively quickly and easily to dynamic market demands or new emission regulations," continues Thum. "Customer feedback also confirms that we're on the right track with this strategy," adds Wolfram Frei, Head of Sales Commercial and Fast Craft at ZF. The first concrete orders from two European yacht builders attest to this successful strategy.

Nor-Shipping 2023: Trade fair presentation and location anniversary
ZF will present its new hybrid module during the Nor-Shipping trade fair in Oslo from June 6 to 9 (Hall C, German Pavilion, Booth C01-12a). The event also offers the opportunity to celebrate the current anniversary of the ZF location Krimpen (Netherlands). For fifty years, the plant has been developing and producing leading-edge thruster solutions, such as the recently presented hybrid version of the tried-and-trusted ZF AT 80.