Powering the future: ZF redefines versatility with the new AT series thrusters

Sponsored Content: In the demanding world of tugs, towboats, and barges, operational flexibility isn’t just a luxury; it’s a competitive necessity. As the industry faces tightening emission regulations and the push for “green” ship notations, vessel owners are looking for propulsion solutions that bridge the gap between rugged reliability and future-ready technology.

At the forefront of this evolution is ZF’s ever-expanding Azimuth Thruster (AT) series. This well-mounted, Z-Drive thruster line represents a significant leap forward, offering a power range from 100 kW to 2,500 kW. ZF has engineered a solution capable of meeting the rigorous bollard pull requirements of modern tug operations and the steady endurance needed for long-haul pushers.

Customization meets compliance

One of the most pressing challenges for inland and coastal operators is the variety of hull shapes and vessel profiles. The ZF AT series addresses this by being one of the most flexible products on the market, fully customizable to nearly any design.

However, the real game changer for operators is the series’ integration into the “green” ecosystem. All thrusters in the series can be executed as part of a hybrid or fully electric system. For operators eyeing a CLEANSHIP class notation, this provides a clear roadmap. By utilizing a hybrid setup, vessels can operate with reduced engine power and utilize electric modes.

The hybrid advantage: PTI and efficiency

The AT line features an electric motor positioned at the upper gearbox’s Power-Take-In (PTI). This performance is tailored to the specific application. In ports or waterways with strict noise and emission regulations, the ability to maneuver under full electric power is a significant operational advantage. Furthermore, the system acts as a “booster” for evading obstacles or increasing top speed.

For specialized vessels, the benefits extend to deck equipment. In firefighting applications, the hybrid setup eliminates the need for expensive controlled-pitch propellers. Instead, the diesel engine can drive the firefighting pump while the electric motor independently powers the thruster, streamlining the mechanical complexity of the engine room.

Sustainability and support

Sustainability is further reinforced in the ZF AT series, which features a specialized seal arrangement designed for Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants (EAL). Available in L-drive configurations (including retractable or tunnel options), the thursters can serve as a purely electric solution, often featuring integrated brakes or Power-Take-Off (PTO) capabilities to suit diverse use cases.

Specifically, the latest product in the series, the ZF AT 90, can also be executed as a part of a hybrid or fully electric system. It supports a variety of commercial vessels, including tugs and inland waterway vessels up to 2,651 hp. Competitive delivery speeds and low life-cycle costs add to the advantages.

ZF understands that a thruster is only as good as the support behind it. To ensure maximum uptime, ZF provides a 24/7 global customer service hotline, +1-833-ZFWRENCH, and a dedicated mobile app for real-time product and warranty support.

As the industry gathers to discuss the next generation of tugs and barges, the continually expanding ZF AT series stands as proof of what is possible when power meets precision.