Hybrid power for waterjet vessels: ZF presents new ZF 3000 NRD PTI marine transmission

With the new ZF 3000 NRD PTI hybrid transmission, ZF is expanding its portfolio of electrified drive solutions for waterjet vessels © ZF Group

With the ZF 3000 NRD PTI, ZF is extending its expertise for maritime drives to another field of application.

• New transmission enables hybrid propulsion for waterjet vessels in the power class up to 1,940 kW
• PTI designed for up to 250 kW of electric power - facilitates emission-free maneuvering and boost mode
• First customer projects already at sea

The new hybrid transmission, designed for the power range up to 1,940 kW, is a space- and weight-saving solution for realizing hybrid propulsion in waterjet vessels. This enables low-noise and low-emission operation, such as in ports and bays. In addition, it provides powerful support in situations where rapid maneuvering is required.

Sometimes speed is of the essence, even on water. In this case, manufacturers of yachts and workboats such as ferries, crew and firefighting vessels often choose waterjet drives. The all-new ZF 3000 NRD PTI allows shipyards and designers to rely on a powerful and reliable solution from ZF for this propulsion variant. The company, established as a maritime propulsion specialist, offers intelligent hybrid transmissions for all vessel propulsion options and in a wide variety of power output ratings.

Proven basis, new possibilities

The basis for the new hybrid waterjet transmission is the ZF 3000 series, which has already been in successful use on the market for several years. Customers can therefore count on a robust, durable and powerful drive system. The ZF 3000 NRD PTI is designed for a maximum output of 1,940 kW and 7,560 Nm on the main unit as well as 250 kW and 1,500 Nm on the electric power take-in (PTI). The closely coordinated ratio covers the range i=1.093 to i=2.952. At the same time, ZF is working on further variants - the ZF 5000 NRD PTI and ZF 8000 NRD PTI - that can cover larger power output ratings.

The ZF 3000 NRD PTI can be coupled with electric motors thanks to its PTI. As such, vessels equipped with this transmission can also cruise in protected waters, ports or bays thanks to the low-emission and low-noise drive. Since the transmission unit is extremely quiet in this configuration, it also ensures more comfort onboard. In addition, the electric motor can also power the onboard equipment. With its compact design, it will also fit into small engine rooms, giving designers additional design freedom.

First customer projects already implemented

ZF has already received initial orders for the new ZF 3000 NRD PTI hybrid transmission and successfully implemented customer projects. Patrol boats and firefighting vessels outfitted with the new system are currently operating reliably in Asia.

SMM 2024: Trade fair appearance with virtual highlights

ZF will present the new hybrid transmission during the SMM trade fair in Hamburg from September 3rd to 6th (Hall A3, Stand 219). The hybrid transmission will be virtually projected onto the stand using augmented reality. This will allow visitors to experience the product interactively from a new perspective.