A new series of marine control drives has been introduced for workboats, offshore vessels and tugs with azimuthing drives.
Twin Disc has revealed a new series of its slipping clutch marine control drive (MCD) technology. The MCD-2000, MCD-4000 and MCD-5000 controls are ideal for azimuthing thruster and propeller-driven vessels, such as tugs and offshore support vessels. It could be used for vessels that have dynamic positioning (DP) or perform slow-speed manoeuvring.
This MCD series delivers two-in-one operation, said Twin Disc. It performs as a fixed ratio drive when underway and as a variable ratio drive when a power divider is required.
MCD provides the ability to split main engine power to another operation, such as driving FiFi pumps, deck machinery, hauling lines or turning generators.
Twin Disc said this series is a superior alternative to controllable pitch propellers. “Modulated power achieves propeller speeds well below rated engine idle speed. Its unique design provides for intentional clutch slipping to precisely regulate propulsion speed,” said Twin Disc.
Slip at any engine speed can be accomplished based upon specific application criteria. These control drives can be customised for the needs and power configuration of a vessel that needs a high-power power take-off to drive auxiliary equipment.
Twin Disc has 10 models of the MCD high dissipation (HD) series available and eight in low dissipation (LD) configurations.
HD slips up to the rated engine speed with the capability to dissipate all heat generated when power dividing. It eliminates the need for auxiliary engines.
LD slips at engine idle speed for gradual propeller speed change.
“This provides safer and easier vessel control during extremely slow and controlled manoeuvring, DP operations and docking,” said Twin Disc.
MCD Series bearings are calculated for high universal joint angles at maximum power.
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