COLUMBUS YACHTS HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM

COLUMBUS YACHTS 40M SPORT

HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM

Columbus Yachts Hybrid Propulsion System combines several

elements known for their reliability into a single whole, creating

a revolutionary flexible system while maintaining a very friendly

user interface.

Benefits related to an Hybrid Propulsion System are to be

considered as the sum of the specific benefits related to each

“MODE”.

Using a conventional propulsion system (engine, gearbox, shaft,

propeller), changes were made to the gearbox.

A PTI/PTO (Power Take in/Power Take Out) was installed to the

gearbox, the same kind of PTO used for hydraulic stabilizers

before the advent of separate hydraulic Power Packs, along with

an electric motor and a hydraulic clutch.

On the Columbus 40M Sport Hybrid, the electric motor is

considered another service element, together with the bow

thruster, the galley, and so on. The motor is connected to the

primary electrics panel and powered by two generators.

Using the PTI/PTO, the electric motor has three electric

operational modes, easily controlled by pressing a button on

the touch screen.

ELECTRIC OPERATIONAL MODE

This technology, which is several decades old, is often

applied on ferries and cruise ships, and is known as diesel-

electric propulsion. The generators are running and

provide electric power to the electric panel which then

regulate the electric motor as a service element.

Each electric motor on the Columbus 40M Sport Hybrid

absorbs 75 kW out of the available 200 kW, 100 kW per

generator, for a total of 150 kW. 50 kW are therefore free for

other uses. The clutch is engaged, the electric motor turns

the gearbox which in turn revolves the propeller.

BENEFITS RELATED TO THE “ELECTRIC OPERATIONAL

MODE”

When in ‘Electric Mode’, the yacht behaves like a sailboat:

zero noise, exhaust and vibration, while her speed is

relatively slow. Each motor's upper limit of 75 kW gives the

yacht a top speed of eight knots, but in complete silence.

Another plus related to the Electric Mode is the fuel

consumption reduction: approximately 80 liters/hour.

A remarkable advantage for a 40 meter yacht.

ELECTRIC MODE

DIESEL MODE

With the clutch disengaged, the hybrid system is

completely invisible. The vessel is propelled by the

traditional propulsion system: primary engines, gearbox,

shaft and propeller.

DIESEL MODE

SHAFT GENERATOR MODE

This is the most applied system in the maritime and

commercial shipping world. In this mode the primary

engine turns the gearbox which then turns the shaft and

propeller. When the clutch is engaged while the engine is

running, the electric motor can be used as a generator: the

primary engine runs the electric motor which in turn

provides electricity. The primary generators are therefore

turned off and all the vessel's electrical needs are satisfied

by the electric motor.

BENEFITS RELATED TO THE “SHAFT GENERATOR MODE”

This allows decreased fuel consumption as both generators

are off and the primary engine is running under optimal

load: with 2,000 hp available, an additional 75 kW (the

maximum load for the electric motor) is insignificant in

overall fuel consumption. With the generators off this mode

not only decreases fuel consumption but also eliminates

the need for generator maintenance during long range

distances. Smooth and extremely comfortable night

navigations.

SHAFT GENERATOR MODE

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