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.
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.
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.
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