Elcome will showcase Hybrid Diesel-Electric Propulsion Systems at the India Boat & Marine Show
by Elcome 22 Mar 2022 14:21 AEDT
25-27 March 2022
9-meter hybrid electric patrol boat from Ribcraft © Mounette Azim Got Design Me
Elcome International will introduce a revolutionary new hybrid diesel-electric boat propulsion system, as well as a full suite of marine electronic products at the India Boat & Marine Show this week.
The system architecture, developed by Transfluid, incorporates a clutch and transmission that enables fast and seamless switching between electric-only, diesel-only or combination modes.
When the clutch is disengaged, the vessel runs solely on battery power, providing silent emission-free running. When in "engine" mode, the clutch is engaged, and the diesels propel the boat while also simultaneously recharging the batteries. In the "booster" mode, the battery-driven electric motor and diesel engines combine to deliver maximum thrust for the powertrain. The lithium batteries can also be charged from a shore power connection when at the pier, and from on-board solar panels when under way.
The three operational modes enable the boat operator to use smaller, less expensive and more efficient diesel engines, yielding substantial savings in fuel consumption and longer maintenance intervals without sacrificing performance. The system also provides more flexibility for boats operating in and out of environmentally protected areas, while delivering improved working conditions for the crew, with no diesel fumes or noise when running in the electric mode.
The completely integrated turnkey solution utilizes a proprietary electronic controller that communicates with all components through a CAN Bus protocol. The hybrid modules, batteries and electric motors are approved by DNV.
"We are seeing growing interest in India for electric and hybrid propulsion systems, driven by awareness of environmental sustainability and a desire to reduce operational and maintenance costs," said Prasanth Gopalakrishnan, General Manager of Commercial Business of Elcome International. "Potential markets include private yachts, commercial crafts, passenger boats and government patrol vessels in offshore and inshore applications, including newbuilds and retrofits."
In addition to the Transfluid hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system, Elcome will also show a full range of Raymarine marine electronics for fishing, leisure, light commercial and government vessels at the India Boat & Marine Show, which will take place March 25-27 in Bolgatty Palace Event Centre, Cochin, in Kerala.