Recently, Wärtsilä announced the launch of the next generation of medium voltage electric drives for large ships.
Typical uses for the drive include large electric propulsion vessels such as tankers, large passenger ships and postal vessels, and a variety of marine service vessels, including drilling vessels and oil and gas industry drives. The new marine medium voltage driver complements the low voltage marine drive that has been available since 2005.
Wärtsilä's earlier medium-voltage drivers were mainly land-based medium-voltage drivers, and the new medium-voltage drivers were specifically designed for ships. According to Wärtsilä, the company's medium-voltage drivers are designed with special attention to personal safety and are easy to install and maintain thanks to their modular design. It is reported that the drive can reduce installed power and reduce capital and operating costs.
The newly developed medium voltage drive can be used as a propeller for various ships and as a control for large fans, pumps, compressors and cranes. The drive also reduces weight and meets space requirements.