Case Study

A group of engineers have developed a completely new method of propelling a displacement vessel while using only about 25% of the energy consumed by the old unshrouded propeller, and maintaining the same performance.

This system, The Gamma Propulsion System (TGPS), is easy to build and very easy to retro fit to existing ships. It comprises a series of diesel electric units, strategically located COMPLETELY INBOARD down both sides of the vessel – typically in the cargo hold on retro fit ships – with each unit occupying only around 8 cubic metres.

Note: A 6 unit retro fit would require the allocation of space taken up by 2 x 20ft containers but would reduce fuel consumption by around 75%.

When strategically positioned as mentioned, a ship is capable of manoeuvring in all directions – forward, aft, sideways, spin in its own length and crab – using its power range right up to full thrust.This strategic placement of the units also achieves built-in redundancy for the unlikely event of an electric motor failure. In such an event, a motor can be easily and inexpensively replaced, even en-route.

Apart from inner workings of the TGPS, the motors, the few bearings and seals are all ‘off the shelf’ items.

Routine servicing is also inexpensive and simple to perform, as everything is located COMPLETELY INBOARD.

A scalable version of this system has been tank tested, and Lloyd’s Register have Certified the results and performance to match the developer’s specifications.

(5.5 kW 50Hz Motor, 6.41 Ratio Gearbox)
Hz	45	50	55	60
Motor RPM	2647	2940	3215	3480
Pump RPM	413	459	502	543
% of Rated Power Used	49	59	71	85.5
kW used	2.7	3.25	3.91	4.70
HP used	3.61	4.35	5.23	6.30
Water Speed kph	27.1	29.9	33.0	36.0
Water Speed M/sec	7.53	8.31	9.17	10.0
Mass kg/ sec	113.4	125.2	138.1	150.7
*Thrust in Newtons. MV**	854	1040	1267	1507
Thrust kgs. /9.8	87	106	129	154
Thrust Ratio, kg/HP	24.13	24.40	24.69	24.39
Times better than Average Ships Propeller	6.03	6.10	6.17	6.10

The developers claim that The Gamma Propulsion System will, for example, replace an existing 4,000 HP main engine with a MAXIMUM 1,000 HP TGPS and still maintain the same thrust.

The Lloyd’s Register Certified TGPS can save the shipping industry approximately 75% of its current fuel usage and, consequently, 75% of the pollution it causes through emissions while still maintaining current, fast schedules. (Note: 83% savings were achieved as tested by Lloyd’s Register.)

The TGPS developers are in the process of arranging a demonstration ship of about 80 metres LOA with their propulsion system. This will offer ship owners a hands-on opportunity to see just how effective and efficient this propulsion system is.

To find out more on how your company can participate in this once in a lifetime opportunity contact us.

Original Article http://www.gamma-lhi.com/marine/case-study/

Gamma Light & Heavy Industries Ltd

Case Study