L-drive

The Veth L-drive-Drive thruster offers exceptional 360-degree thrust control, providing unmatched maneuverability for a variety of vessels. Its compact, efficient design ensures enhanced fuel economy and reduced noise. Experience advanced marine propulsion with the Veth L-Drive.

Benefits

The L-Drive system, also known as an “azimuth thruster”, offers distinct advantages compared to other propulsion methods commonly used in marine and ship applications. Let’s explore these differences:

  • 360° full of thrust for optimal maneuverability
  • 2% more efficiency than with a conventional propeller
  • Possibility for flexible suspension (better insulation from noise and vibration)
  • Ability to change propeller without docking
  • Simple to install
  • More room for passengers/cargo due to compact construction
  • No separate gearbox needed
  • Ideally suited for Dynamic Positioning (DP)
  • Safer, through shorter emergency stopping distance and improved maneuverability

In summary, the L-Drive system stands out due to its exceptional maneuverability, reduced complexity, noise reduction, and efficiency. However, each propulsion method has its own trade-offs, and the choice depends on the specific vessel type, operational requirements, and budget considerations.

Enhanced maneuverability

The Veth L-Drive thruster offers unparalleled 360-degree rotation, allowing the propulsion unit to independently rotate to any angle. This capability vastly improves maneuverability, particularly in tight spaces, docking scenarios, and during precise positioning. Unlike traditional fixed propellers that require the entire vessel to turn, the L-Drive enables vessels to change direction smoothly and efficiently, making it especially beneficial for applications requiring tight control, such as tugboats and offshore supply vessels.

Dynamic thrust vectoring

The L-Drive’s dynamic thrust vectoring allows vessels to move forward, backward, or sideways without altering their orientation. This flexibility distinguishes the Z-Drive from conventional propellers that generate thrust along a fixed axis. The ability to change thrust direction on the fly provides superior control and adaptability, which is essential for specialized marine operations and enhances the overall versatility of the vessel in varied conditions.

Efficiency and redundancy

The Veth L-Drive’s direct connection minimizes energy losses, optimizing propulsion efficiency across various operational conditions. Vessels equipped with L-Drives excel in station keeping and dynamic positioning, maintaining precise locations against external forces such as wind and currents. This capability is crucial for offshore platforms, research vessels, and cruise ships. Furthermore, L-Drive systems often feature redundancy with multiple azimuth thrusters, ensuring continuous operation even in the event of a failure, which is vital for maintaining safety during critical marine operations.

Ratings

Type

Form

Drive type

Power (kW)

Propeller size (mm)

Propeller system

L-drive

Standard/Hybrid

Diesel/Electric

40-2350

450-2700

Nozzle/Open

L-drive

Standard/Hybrid

Diesel/Electric

100-2000

650-2000

CRP

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