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High Voltage Propulsion Systems Overview

The document provides a detailed overview of high voltage propulsion systems used in commercial ships, particularly focusing on AZIPOD or AZIMUTH THRUSTER designs. It outlines the electrical components, including generators, transformers, cycloconverters, and switchboards, as well as their specifications and operational principles. Additionally, it describes the power distribution system and control mechanisms necessary for efficient marine electrotechnology applications.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
31 views13 pages

High Voltage Propulsion Systems Overview

The document provides a detailed overview of high voltage propulsion systems used in commercial ships, particularly focusing on AZIPOD or AZIMUTH THRUSTER designs. It outlines the electrical components, including generators, transformers, cycloconverters, and switchboards, as well as their specifications and operational principles. Additionally, it describes the power distribution system and control mechanisms necessary for efficient marine electrotechnology applications.

Uploaded by

atalayyagci01
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Piri Reis University

Faculty of Maritime – Department of Marine Engineering


SMME422-Marine Electrotechnology-II

High Voltage propulsion system

High voltage is generally used in main propulsion systems in commercial ships that are
sensitive to the load they carry (passenger ships, containers, e.g.). Since this type of ship,
called AZIPOD or AZIMUTH THRUSTER, requires more power for both propulsion and
maneuvering, high voltage electrical systems are preferred because their investment and
operating costs are more economical. The following levels of power used in the ship:

11 kV: main generator, transformers for cycloconverters, distribution transformers Azipod


and power distribution transformers, thrusters and compressors drive motors
1000 V, 60 Hz: propulsion cycloconverters
690 V not stabilized system: power supply to all consumers of the ship.
The ship’s EPP principal equipment comprises,
Six Diesel-driven synchronous generators (at 514 rpm) 10100 kW at 0.7 power factor 11 kV
ABB AMG1600.
One diesel-driven Emergency Generator (EG) set rated, 1500 kVA, 690 V, 1250 A, 3-phases,
60 Hz, 0,8 power factor. This set supplies power only to the emergency switchboard itself.
Two shore supply panels, each of 3200 A capacity (2500 kVA) installed one at port and one
at starboard side in order to feed from shore the 440 V Main Switchboard when all generators
of the ship are out of order.
Four three-phase transformers (1TFB – A – D – C) liquid immersed, each rated 16000 kVA –
5333 kVA, for providing the power to propulsion cycloconverters.
Two pair of cycloconverters (COAA-AB, COBA-BB) provide a variable-frequency supply from
0 to 15 Hz to each propulsion motor. Each cycloconverter is rated 0-1000 V – 8000 kW – 60 Hz
(output voltage 1540 V).
Six dry type distribution transformers (4TFA – B – C – D – E – F) provide the 690 V/220 V
power to the six zone’s substations. Each transformer is rated 1250 kVA, 11/0.47 kV – 3 phases
- 60 Hz. Three transformers are fed by the left section of the 11 kV main switchboard, three
transformers by the right section. One dry type distribution transformer (4TFG) provides the
440 V/220 V power to the galley substation. The transformer is rated 1800 kVA, 11/0.47/0.23
kV – 3 phases – 60 Hz.
Three liquid immersed distribution transformers (3 TF A – B – C) feed the ER-SUB 690 V main
switch boards 3500 kVA – 11/0.735 kW – 60 Hz.
Two excitation transformers (2 TFA–B) rated power 400 kVA – 690/440 V – 60 Hz.
Three Bus high power induction motors 1900 kW (A – B – C) for bow thrusters. Each motor is
directly fed by 1900 kW
Main Switchboard and controlled by means of a medium voltage breaker.
Four bus motors (A – B – C – D) for air conditioning compressors. Each motor is directly fed
by 1060 kW Main Switchboard and controlled by means of a medium voltage breaker.
Two Propulsion Motors type ABB AMZ1250M12LAEZ; each:

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Piri Reis University
Faculty of Maritime – Department of Marine Engineering
SMME422-Marine Electrotechnology-II

Output power : 17600 kW;


Rated speed : 0–160 rpm;
Power factor : 1.0;
Voltage : (30° phase shift) 2 x 1570 V;
Current : 2 x 3372 A;
Frequency : range 0–16 Hz;
Speed : range 0–160 rpm.
The propulsion motor is a brushless synchronous AZIPOD motor. Each one of the two
cycloconverters feeds one stator winding of the double armature three-phase propulsion
motor. Excitation current is transmitted to each rotor through exciter machine and diode
bridge assembled on motor shaft.
11 kV Main Switchboard divided in two sections (left and right); sections are interconnected
by bus-tie breakers, and equipped with SF6 type circuit breakers or contactors, for incomers,
bus-tie and feeders.
Earthing switches are provided for each incoming and outgoing circuit, and for each busbar
section. The earthing switch can be closed when the relevant breaker or contactor is in the
“Test withdrawn” position; the bus earthing switch can be closed only when all circuits of the
section are earthed, and the bus-tie is in the “test withdrawn” position. In the switchboard
are installed also all necessary devices as auxiliary relays, measuring transformers,
synchronizing equipment, meters, etc.
The 690 V – 60 Hz Main Switchboard (ER-SUB) divided in two sections interconnected by
means of a bus section breaker. The AFT section is subdivided into two parts; one section of
this switchboard feeds the accommodation substations. It distributes the power at 690 V not
stabilized voltage to all ship users, through substations or other panels located around the
ship.
One emergency switchboard. The 690 not stabilized power section is normally supplied from
690 V Main Switchboard, but it is supplied by the emergency generator in emergency
conditions. In case of need the 690 V Main Switchboard can be also energized from the
Emergency Switchboard.
Mimic Control Console: The ECR contains a control console, which incorporates the
centralized remote operations for diesel engines start/stop, propulsion motor control,
propeller pitch levers, remote pump motors operation etc. The same console incorporates a
mimic mosaic console which displays all necessary systems for propulsion system, diesel
engine systems, cooling systems, air systems, air conditioning plant, ship services, fire alarm,
etc.
Electric Mimic Control Console: This console includes a mimic mosaic showing the main MV
and LV circuits (main 11kV and 690V switchboard, emergency switchboard, diesel generators,
motor generators, transformers, etc.) and relevant circuit breakers position (open – closed).
The console allows remote manually operation of the MV circuit breakers of distribution
transformers and motor generators.

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Piri Reis University
Faculty of Maritime – Department of Marine Engineering
SMME422-Marine Electrotechnology-II

Major Components

In the ship are installed the following components:


• Six Diesel-driven synchronous salient pole type generators (at 514 rpm) 10100 kW at 0.7
power factor, 11 kV ABB AMG1600.
• One diesel-driven Emergency Generator (EG) set rated 1500 kVA, 690 V, 1250 A, 3-phases,
60 Hz, 0,8 power factor This set supplies power only to the emergency switchboard itself.
• Two shore supply panels, each of 3200 A capacity (2500 kVA) installed one at port and one
at starboard side in order to feed from shore the 440 V Main Switchboard when all
generators of the ship are out of order.
• Two pair of cycloconverters (COAA-AB, COBA-BB) provide a variable-frequency supply
from 0 to 15 Hz to each propulsion motor. Each cycloconverter is rated 0-1000 V – 8000
kW – 60 Hz (output voltage 1540 V)

Generator
The generator AMG1600 is specially designed for supplying network of the vessel which has a
cycloconverter fed propulsion drive. The generator is cooled by air which is circulated in a
closed loop by shaft mounted fan. Air-to-water heat exchangers are located on top of the
machine. Heat exchangers and fans are assembled into a separate cooling unit which in turn
is bolted to the stator frame. In case of a fault in the cooling water supply the motor can be
cooled by ambient air by opening the inspection doors.

Automatic voltage regulator (AVR) is used to control the magnetizing of the exciter. The
system contains further a three-phase Voltage Transformer (T1) which supplies the excitation
power to the field windings of the shaft-driven three-phase exciter under the control of
AVR and supplies also the internal power to the AVR.

The AVR type HAL 9000 is used for controlling terminal voltage, power factor or reactive
current of brushless synchronous generators. This manual describes an application of the
regulator with a Permanent Magnet Generator (PMG), excitation transformer or external
power as excitation power source.

The AVR type, includes all basic features necessary for automatic control of the generator
voltage:
• Voltage regulation
• Reactive load compensation (voltage droop) for operation
• in parallel with other generators or utility network
• Limiting of generator voltage at decreasing frequency (frequency fall off detection).

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Piri Reis University
Faculty of Maritime – Department of Marine Engineering
SMME422-Marine Electrotechnology-II

Besides these basic features the AVR includes many additional features, like: reactive current
or power factor control mode; soft start with adjustable ramp time for initial voltage buildup;
voltage matching i.e. regulation to network voltage for synchronisation; excitation current
limitation, max. and min; reactive current limitation, max. and min; pole angle limitation;
manual control mode; auto follow mode (master or slave) for dual channel operation.

The circuit breakers have a gear motor spring operating mechanism, powered at 110 VDC. The
closing springs are automatically charged by gear motor immediately following the closing
command; in case of emergency, they can be charged manually using the lever.

Cycloconverters Equipment

Diesel Electric Propulsion Drive: In diesel electric propulsion concept a number of generators
driven by medium-speed diesel engines supply electrical power to main switchboard where
all consumers are connected. The number of generators in service may be optimized in order
to achieve the best total efficiency. Each propeller is driven by a double armature synchronous
motor fed by two cycloconverter type frequency converters. The cycloconverters are also
supplied from the main busbar.
Cycloconverter Switchboard: Each cycloconverter switchboard consists of two
cycloconverters A and B, control unit R1, R2 and excitation unit E1. Each converter has three
cubicles of phase units including water treatment unit, three high-speed breaker cubicles,
excitation cubicle and two control cubicles. A cycloconverter (type frequency converter)
converts input frequency directly into output frequency by combining many parts of the sine
waves from the supply network into output voltage waveform. The output frequency may be
varied stepless between zero and about one third of the input frequency. This makes it
possible to control the speed of the synchronous motor from zero to rated full speed, and at
the same time maintain full torque or power through the entire speed range.

One cycloconverter contains three-phase units, each supplied from the 11 kV network through
a supply transformer. Secondary voltage of the supply transformers is 1000 V. Each phase unit
contains two antiparallel connected six-pulse thyristor bridges, each consisting of six
thyristors. Thyristors may conduct only to one direction and the instant when a thyristor will
start conducting can be controlled. This in turn enables the control of the load voltage and
current. The output current of one phase unit flows through one stator winding of a propulsion
motor. Excitation current for the synchronous- type propulsion motor is provided by an
excitation unit.

The excitation unit is supplied from 450V network through 450 / 400 V excitation transformer.
Torque and speed of the propulsion motor is controlled by stator and rotor currents. Control

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Piri Reis University
Faculty of Maritime – Department of Marine Engineering
SMME422-Marine Electrotechnology-II

system of the cycloconverter drive controls both the output currents of the cycloconverter
phase units and the output current of the excitation unit, i.e. the stator and rotor currents of
the propulsion motor. Control works according to the speed reference value given from the
different control locations. In addition, the control system takes care of overload protection
of system components and supply network.
Cycloconverter Phase Units (A1-A3 and B1-B3): The three-phase units of the cycloconverter
are assembled in cubicles A1-A3 for cycloconverter A and in cubicles B1-B3 for cycloconverter
B. Each cycloconverter phase unit includes one thyristor module. The thyristor module is a
robust and compact construction containing two antiparallel connected thyristor rectifiers,
with heat sinks and snubber circuits. The necessary electronic circuits to control and protect
the thyristors and to measure output current and voltage are installed in the same
switchboard compartment. Technical data:
• Supply voltage 3 x 1000 V, 60 Hz;
• Output power factor Approx 1.0;
• Rated output voltage 3 x 1540 V;
• Nominal output current 2961 A;
• Output frequency range 0-24/28 Hz;
• Losses (at rated current) 60 kW;
• Cooling water flow rate 110 l/min;
• Maximum cooling water temperature 36 °C.
High-speed Breaker Unit (AQ1-AQ3 and BQ1-BQ3): Each cycloconverter switchboard contains
one high-speed breaker unit. The high-speed breaker unit contains three onepole high-speed
breakers for the propulsion motor short circuit protection. Each breaker is assembled in its
own cabinet. The high-speed breakers are connected to the outputs of the cycloconverter
phase units with copper bus bars.
Excitation Unit E1: Excitation current for the synchronous-type propulsion motor is provided
by the excitation system. Excitation unit connections are located in cubicle E1 in each
cycloconverter. The cubicle contains supply contactors, selection disconnector and control
electronics for the excitation main circuit. The water cooled excitation thyristor bridges are
located in the phase unit cubicles (A3 and B1), in the same transport section as the water-
cooled main circuit thyristor bridges. Excitation unit technical data:
• Supply voltage 400 V, 60 Hz;
• Rated output voltage 400 V;
• Rated output current 600 A.
Supply Transformers (1 TFA, 1 TFB, 1 TFC, 1 TFD): Each propulsion drive contains two four-
winding supply transformers, one supplying A-side and other supplying B-side. The supply
transformers are liquid-immersed type, water-cooled, three-phase transformers. Supply
transformer technical data:
• Rated power 16000/5333/5333/5333 kVA;
• Voltage 11 kV / 1000/1000/1000 V;

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Piri Reis University
Faculty of Maritime – Department of Marine Engineering
SMME422-Marine Electrotechnology-II

• Frequency 60 Hz;
• Cooling KFWF;
• Temperature rise A (65 °C).
Excitation Transformers (2 TFA, 2 TFB): Each propulsion drive has one excitation transformer.
The excitation transformers are dry-type, water-cooled, three-phase
transformers. Excitation transformer technical data:
• Rated power 400 kVA;
• Voltage 690/440 V;
• Connection Dy11;
• Frequency 60 Hz;
• Cooling AFWF.
Diesel Engine LOPs and Information about the state of the DE and systems:

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Piri Reis University
Faculty of Maritime – Department of Marine Engineering
SMME422-Marine Electrotechnology-II

Turning Gear DG Engine LOPs

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Piri Reis University
Faculty of Maritime – Department of Marine Engineering
SMME422-Marine Electrotechnology-II

Diesel Generators PID Controllers

Power Distribution

General Description: The ship electrical network LINER is designed for delivering electrical
power from the ship EPP to the consumers. The main generation for the ship is at 11 kV, and
provides power for electric propulsion, for high-power motors and for hotel services. The
Medium Voltage (MV) network includes two main switchboards (MSWBs), fitted in two
separate rooms, connected by one interconnecting line. They are operated normally in an
interconnected network mode, i.e. with the tie line automatic circuit breaker (ACB) closed and
exceptionally in a split networks mode, i.e. with the tie line ACBs open (failure or maintenance
on the interconnecting line).
Major Components: The ship’s power distribution system comprises:
• 11 kV Main Switchboard divided in two sections (AFT and FWD); sections are
interconnected by bus-tie breakers, and equipped with SF6 type circuit breakers or
contactors, for incomers, bus-tie and feeders;
• The 690 V – 60 Hz Main Switchboard (MSWB) divided in two sections interconnected by
means of a bus section breaker. The AFT section is subdivided into two parts; one section
of this switchboard feeds the accommodation substations. It distributes the power at 690

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Piri Reis University
Faculty of Maritime – Department of Marine Engineering
SMME422-Marine Electrotechnology-II

V not stabilized voltage to all ship users, through substations or other panels located
around the ship;
• One emergency switchboard (EMSWBD). The 690 V not stabilized power section is
normally supplied from 690 V Main Switchboard, but it is supplied by the emergency
generator in emergency conditions. In case of need the 690 V Main Switchboard can be
also energized from the Emergency Switchboard;
• The galley, laundry, provision, mooring distribution boards supplied from the MSWB;
• Six Accommodation Distribution boards: 690 V / 220 V supplied from the MSWB;
• Circuit breakers and protection gear;
• Transformers;
• Local panels and starters in engine rooms.
Gas Circuit Breakers (SF6 CB) Components: The HD4 series are sulphur hexafluoride (SF6)
circuit-breakers for indoor installation. The CB is provided with a gas pressure switch and an
auxiliary relay that operates for insufficient SF6 gas pressure. The CB consists of the following
operating and signaling parts modelled in the simulator:

• Closing push button I (1);


• Opening push button O (2);
• Signaling device (3) for circuit breaker open/closed;
• Signaling device (4) for closing springs charged/discharged;
• Shaft (5) for manual closing spring charging.
• RESET button for protection of CB geared motor.
11 kV Medium Voltage Main Circuit Diagram: Click on the menu item Medium Voltage MCD
of the page 4-B to open the 11 kV MEDIUM VOLTAGE display. On the diagram the following
color indication is used for the objects (electrical lines, generators, transformers, motors, etc.):
• Green – the object is not powered;
• Pink – the object is under medium voltage 11 kV;

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Piri Reis University
Faculty of Maritime – Department of Marine Engineering
SMME422-Marine Electrotechnology-II

• Dark blue – the object is under 690 V;


• Brown – the object is under 440 V;
• Orange – the object is under 220 V;
• Yellow – the object is under 110 V.
Digital indicators present the measured values of appropriate electrical parameters: voltage,
current, power, frequency. The mimic includes: six generators G1 ... G6; AFT MSWB 11 kV
60 Hz and FWD MSWB 11 kV 60 Hz sections linked by two ACBs (107, 208); transformers;
electrical motors; cycloconverters and AZIPOD drive motors. The transformers provide
required voltage to substations and distribution boards of the low voltage consumers (see the
paragraph 5.3 on page 115). Two separate pairs of feeders are provided from the port and
the starboard bars to the two halves propulsion motors via the propulsion transformers set
(11/3 X 1 kV) and the cycloconverters. Separate feeders for the motor’s excitation system are
provided from the 690 V Main Switchboard. The remote control of the MSWBs is made with
the supervision of power management system (PMS), by the ship automation (AMS). The
manual remote control by the engine room mimic panel and the local manual control by the
MSWB control panels is used only when the AMS is under maintenance or in failure.

High and Medium Voltage Distribution

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Piri Reis University
Faculty of Maritime – Department of Marine Engineering
SMME422-Marine Electrotechnology-II

Low Voltage Main Circuit Diagram

On the diagram the following color indication is used for the objects (electrical lines,
generators, transformers, motors, etc.):
• Green – the object is not powered;
• Pink – the object is under medium voltage 11 kV;
• Dark blue – the object is under 690 V;
• Brown – the object is under 440 V;
• Orange – the object is under 220 V;
• Yellow – the object is under 110 V.
Digital indicators present the measured values of appropriate electrical parameters: voltage,
current, power, frequency.

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Piri Reis University
Faculty of Maritime – Department of Marine Engineering
SMME422-Marine Electrotechnology-II

Generators Main Switch Boards and SYNPOL ®D Controller Panel

FWD MSWB 1 and Synchro Sections AFT MSWB 1 and Synchro Sections

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Piri Reis University
Faculty of Maritime – Department of Marine Engineering
SMME422-Marine Electrotechnology-II

FWD and AFT MSWB Sections 2 & 3

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Common questions

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The SF6 circuit breakers in the marine electrical switchboard system are used to manage and protect the electrical circuits by connecting or disconnecting electric flow when necessary. They consist of parts such as pressure switches and auxiliary relays which operate for insufficient SF6 gas pressure. These breakers also include signaling devices for circuit statuses and a manual shaft for charging the spring in emergencies .

Cycloconverter drive control systems in operational marine environments face challenges of variable load demands and the need for precise speed-torque control. They address these by regulating stator and rotor currents, ensuring the propulsion motor can adjust speed from zero to full effectively. The control system also provides overload protection for system components and the supply network, safeguarding against faults and ensuring system performance and longevity, critical in unpredictable marine conditions .

The emergency generator provides critical power to the emergency switchboard, ensuring essential systems remain operational during power failures. It energizes the 690 V Main Switchboard when normal power sources fail and ensures the continuity of vital services by preventing total electrical system shutdown. This generator activates automatically, underscoring its crucial role in power redundancy and security for the ship's electrical infrastructure .

Supply and excitation transformers are integral to the ship's propulsion system by stepping down voltage from 11kV to levels suitable for cycloconverter input and excitation units. They are designed to handle high powers and include water-cooling for thermal management, ensuring consistent performance. By providing correct voltages and enabling cycloconverter operation, these transformers support the precise speed control of propulsion motors, contributing to overall efficiency and reliability of the ship's movement and energy usage .

Using thyristor-based cycloconverters offers significant benefits in marine propulsion systems, including precise speed control, full torque maintenance across a speed range, and energy efficiency by directly converting AC frequencies. Challenges include the complexity of ensuring reliable operation under varying load and sea conditions, managing cooling requirements due to heat dissipation, and maintaining synchronization with power supply networks, which demands sophisticated control systems to ensure continuous and fault-tolerant operation .

The Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) is crucial in maintaining the voltage regulation and reactive load compensation for operation in parallel with other generators or utility networks. It includes features for limiting generator voltage at decreasing frequency, reactive current or power factor control mode, and excitation current limitation. The AVR also ensures soft start with adjustable ramp times and voltage matching for synchronization with network voltage. The AVR thus facilitates stable generator performance and efficient power distribution across the ship's electrical systems .

The mimic control console plays a vital role in operational efficiency of a ship's electrical systems by providing centralized remote control and real-time monitoring of various systems such as propulsion and air conditioning. It enables operators to quickly visualize system statuses and control operations, significantly enhancing the ability to manage engine start/stop processes, adjust propeller pitch, and oversee fire alarms, leading to a more responsive and efficient operational environment .

The diesel-driven synchronous salient pole type generators are designed for low speed, high power output at 11 kV, suitable for marine applications needing stable power. These generators feed the main switchboards, providing electricity for propulsion, onboard services, and operational systems. Their synchronization capabilities allow parallel operation, enhancing efficiency by optimizing generator usage according to power demands, thus contributing significantly to the ship’s electrical system reliability and energy efficiency .

The electrical propulsion system achieves speed control for the propulsion motors using cycloconverters that convert input frequency directly into an output frequency, allowing for a stepless variation of the speed of the synchronous motor from zero to full speed while maintaining full torque or power. The cycloconverter facilitates this by combining parts of the supply network's sine waves into the output voltage waveform, thus controlling the load voltage and current to adjust motor speed and torque effectively .

The main switchboards integrate into the power distribution network by routing electricity from generators and external sources like shore supplies to various consumers. Divided into sections interconnected by bus-tie breakers, they ensure a stable power supply to ship systems and include SF6 circuit breakers to manage voltage levels and circuit conditions. Safety mechanisms such as earthing switches and automatic circuit breaker functions handle errors by isolating faulty sections, averting widespread failures in the network .

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