ZF Marine just unveiled its new pod propulsion system for the first time in North America at the recent Fort Lauderdale show. It’s already in use on an Azimut superyacht in Europe, but now it will be available here also.
The new ZF 4600 POD system is designed for yachts form 80 to 130 feet with planing or semi-displacement hulls. It’s compatible with all major brand engines up to 1,700 hp. It can be configured for twin installation in yachts from 80 to 99 feet and triple installation for larger vessels. Each pod weighs 3,395 pounds.
The ZF pods have state-of-the-art engineering with an optimized hydrodynamic shape to reduce underwater drag. They have counter-rotating props, measuring up to 38.5 inches in diameter. ZF says the system is twice as powerful as other pod drives, and it consumes up to 15 percent less fuel than a traditional shaft drive would in the same boat.
The system has an integrated exhaust and clutch, eliminating the need for an additional gearbox. It also has integrated hydraulic steering and joystick controls with dynamic positioning.
The pods give boat designers more room to play with in working on new boats. The engines can be mounted farther aft, increasing space for accommodations, storage or even wine cellars and washer/dryers. The ZF pods are mounted with large rubber seals to reduce vibration and noise. The engines can be mounted on soft elastic mounts since they do not have to absorb propeller thrust.
Founded in 1915, ZF is a global tech company based in Friedrichshafen, Germany, with offices in 31 countries. Read more at http://zf.com and see the video below:
