
Diesel electric marine propulsion is a highly efficient and reliable system that's gaining popularity in the maritime industry. It's a game-changer for vessels that need to operate in harsh environments or require high power output.
The key component of diesel electric propulsion is the diesel engine, which generates electricity to power an electric motor. This motor then propels the vessel through the water.
One of the main advantages of diesel electric propulsion is its ability to optimize fuel efficiency. By using the diesel engine to generate electricity, vessels can achieve better fuel economy and reduced emissions.
In a typical diesel electric setup, the diesel engine is connected to a generator, which produces electricity to power the electric motor. This motor is then connected to the propeller, allowing the vessel to move.
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S.E.M.T. Pielstick Engines
S.E.M.T. Pielstick Engines are a popular choice for diesel-electric marine propulsion due to their high power density and low emission levels.
They offer a range of configurations to suit different needs, with the PC2.6B design delivering up to 13,500 kW of power at 600 rpm.
The PA6B engine, on the other hand, is designed for extreme robustness and can operate at speeds of 900 – 1,000 rpm, producing 4,200 – 7,400 kW of power.
In terms of efficiency, the PA6B engine has an integrated cooling system for fresh water, lube oil, and fuel oil, making it a reliable choice for harsh environments.
Here are some key specifications for the S.E.M.T. Pielstick engines:
Electric Drive Systems
Fischer Panda's diesel electric drive systems offer a range of options for marine electric propulsion. Whether you're looking to cruise silently on fully battery-powered systems or support your vessel's diesel with a parallel hybrid system, they have a solution for you.
Their systems can be used with a variety of propulsion options, including surface piercing propellers, as seen in the BH400 120 Horsepower Surface Piercing Propeller Ship Propulsion System. This system features a reliable quality surface drive and is available in competitive price.
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Some of their popular models include the BH450 High Quality Stainless Steel Marine Propulsion System and the G550 High Performance High Speed Catamaran Propulsion Systems. These systems are designed to provide efficient and reliable power to your vessel.
Experience Next-Gen Electric Drive Systems
Fischer Panda's diesel electric drive systems are the next generation of marine electric propulsion. You can cruise silently on fully battery-powered systems.
Their systems support your vessel's diesel with a parallel hybrid system, allowing for a more efficient use of energy. This can lead to cost savings and reduced emissions.
Fischer Panda has a solution for you, whether you need a fully battery-powered system, a parallel hybrid system, or a generator-supported system to power your entire electrical system.
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Description
The CODLAD propulsion system uses electric motors directly connected to the propellers' axes, making it a more efficient and cost-effective option.
This system is powered by diesel generators and allows for higher speeds by disconnecting the higher power diesel engine from the transmission system to return to cruising speed.
The CODLAD system reduces costs by decreasing the number of diesel engines needed for various ship services, and electric motors require less maintenance.
Electric motors can work more effectively in a larger number of revolutions and being directly connected to the propeller axis eliminates the need for complex transmission systems.
The CODLAD system has been adopted in the new Vulcano-class logistic support ship under construction for the Italian Navy, demonstrating its effectiveness in real-world applications.
Choosing the Right System
For vessels that operate at full loads and high speeds, a conventional mechanical system is the only viable option. This is because mechanical propulsion is designed for power and speed.
A diesel electric propulsion system, on the other hand, can be an optimal choice for supply ships and workboats that operate often at low loads and spend much of their time idling. Idling is not only inefficient from a fuel standpoint, but it also stresses diesel engines and can cause maintenance issues.
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Using a diesel electric system reduces the number of prime movers required on many ships, and alleviates idling-related engine maintenance issues. This is especially important for supply ships and workboats that often operate at low loads.
A typical conventional mechanical setup includes five prime movers, two of which are dedicated to propulsion and three for the electric service. In contrast, a diesel electric system utilizes the same engines for both propulsion and the ship's electric service.
Less power is used during idling with a diesel electric system, making it a more efficient choice for vessels that spend a lot of time in this state.
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Marine Propulsion Systems
Fischer Panda's diesel electric drive systems are perfect for those looking to cruise silently on fully battery-powered systems. Their high-quality stainless steel marine propulsion systems, such as the BH450, are designed for long-lasting performance.
You can choose from a range of systems, including the G550, which is suitable for high-performance high-speed catamaran propulsion. This system is used with a marine gearbox for sales.

If you're looking for a reliable and low-maintenance option, the BH400 surface piercing propeller ship propulsion system is a great choice. It features a 120 horsepower diesel engine and surface drive.
Here are some of the marine propulsion systems offered by Fischer Panda:
- BH450 High Quality Stainless Steel Marine Propulsion System
- G550 High Performance High Speed Catamaran Propulsion Systems
- G750 Good Quality Marine Diesel Electric Boat Propulsion
- G660 Good Quality Marine Diesel Electric Marine Propulsion Systems
- BH500 316L Stainless Steel Diesel Electric Marine Propulsion Systems
- BH400 120 Horsepower Surface Piercing Propeller Ship Propulsion System
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the disadvantages of diesel-electric propulsion?
Diesel-electric propulsion has several disadvantages, including increased complexity and cost due to energy conversion, and decreased efficiency at high speeds. This is because diesel engines and electric motors excel at low rpm torque, but struggle with high rpm performance.
What is the main advantage of diesel-electric propulsion?
Diesel-electric propulsion offers improved space efficiency and weight distribution, allowing for a more streamlined design and better performance. This efficient drive system provides a key advantage over traditional two-stroke engines.
Sources
- https://www.man-es.com/marine/products/four-stroke-engines/diesel-electric-propulsion
- https://fischerpanda.com/electric-propulsion/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Combined_diesel%E2%80%93electric_and_diesel
- https://www.rockwellautomation.com/en-us/company/news/blogs/clean-sailing--is-diesel-electric-propulsion-the-right-choice-.html
- https://www.surfacedrive.net/products/Diesel-Electric-Marine-Propulsion-Systems.html
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