XForce – Engbo Thruster Systems, Now Available in Australia

by Andrew Wilson on 4 Jun 2009 Engbo AS has for several years delivered bow and stern thrusters as OEM to Volvo Penta with Volvo distributing these under the QL brand. Engbo and Volvo Penta agreed in mid 2006 that the distribution shall be undertaken in two channels simultaneously with one brand name in each channel. The purpose for this was to make the thrusters more readily available in the market.

Engbo Innovation AS has developed the Engbo XForce thruster systems for distribution on the world stage. It has based its work on research and development test results, extensive laboratory findings and sea trials. A high level of output combined with reduced tunnel diameter justifies the positioning of the thrusters, which is deeper and farther to the front of a given vessel. This, in turn provides for increased effect expressed as an improved turning moment with relation to the hull.

One of the goals set for this project was to develop a thruster system where the various models should be based on the very same technology. A second goal was to ensure the installation should be time efficient as well as easy. As the third criteria, the maintenance on each vessel should be minimal.

The Engbo XForce thruster system has no direct connection between the motor and gearbox arrangement, instead is uses a solid transmission belt between the motor and the propeller shaft to transfer the power. There is no oil in the gear housing. The motor is placed in parallel with the tunnel. This design reduces noise, is compact and provides excellent conditions for the build-in. This equipment is highly desirable in vessels where space is an issue.

The gear housing and the pipe bracket is one unit and made from stainless steel AISI 316 for the larger models. The Engbo XForce 20 bracket is made from glass fibre armoured composites. This way, there will be no future expenses for galvanic anodes. The Engbo XForce is delivered installed onto the pipe bracket; as one unit. The installations thus easy. Research has indicated savings of up to 50 per cent in time compared to conventional thrusters.

With Det Norske Veritas (DNV) approval, it makes the XForce thrusters suitable for all commercial and recreational use across the globe. Available in 12/24v and varying in size from 20kg to 130kg of thrust or, 22-75ft vessels, XForce have a thruster to suit almost any application.

Available Exclusively in Australia through Power Protection Solutions P/L. Ph: 07 3283-7800
www.powersolutions.com.au