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Norwegian Epic’s thruster upgraded to Rolls-Royce permanent magnet technology

Norwegian Epic’s thruster upgraded to Rolls-Royce permanent magnet technology
Norwegian Cruise Line has selected a Rolls-Royce permanent magnet tunnel thruster to upgrade the propulsion package onboard Norwegian Epic.

The thruster offers numerous advantages over traditional tunnel thrusters including significant reduction in noise and vibration, an increase in power output of around 25% from the same size propeller, and is removable underwater eliminating the need for dry docking, states the supplier.

Jay McFadyen, svp marine services, Americas, Rolls-Royce said:‘We are delighted that Norwegian Cruise Line is the first cruise customer to select our new permanent magnet tunnel thruster as an upgrade to an existing propulsion package.’

The Rolls Royce executive added, ‘This cutting edge permanent magnet technology is suitable for a range of applications in both merchant and offshore vessels, where exceptionally low noise levels, high power output, and rapid response to power demand will benefit operators, crew and, very importantly, passengers alike.’

The permanent magnet tunnel thruster design concept comprises a permanent magnet motor in a rim, which drives the propeller in the centre.

The motor consists of two main parts – a stator that carries a number of electrical coil windings, and a rotor fitted with a number of very strong permanent magnets. A rotating magnetic field is created by the stator which interacts with the fields of the permanent magnets on the rotor, which generates force to drag the rotor around, providing the mechanical power.

Other benefits of permanent magnet technology include the freeing up of space directly above the thruster where traditional tunnel thruster motors are located, and a symmetrical design that gives equal thrust to port or starboard. It is available in 1600mm and 2000mm diameter.