Azipull azimuth thruster

Since its introduction in 2003, more than 600 Azipull thrusters have been delivered worldwide. Combining a proven pulling propulsion concept with advanced hydrodynamic optimisations, the Azipull helps vessel operators achieve high propulsive efficiency, low noise levels, and strong manoeuvrability.

Designed for efficiency, manoeuvrability and operational flexibility

The Azipull is an azimuthing thruster with a large, slowly rotating, propeller positioned in front of the gear housing. The Azipull can be tailored to a wide range of vessel types and operational profiles. Customers can choose between different propellers options, while hybrid and permanent magnet motor options provide additional flexibility for modern propulsion systems.

One platform, multiple configurations

The Azipull thruster is built on a modular platform that can be tailored to different vessel concepts and stakeholder requirements. Whether the preferred solution is L-drive battery-electric, Z-drive diesel-mechanical, or hybrid propulsion, fixed or controllable pitch propellers, the system can be configured to match the vessel design while accommodating shipyard installation preferences and space constraints.

Why the Azipull?

The Azipull design offers several hydrodynamic advantages

• The propeller operates in a more uniform water flow, supporting high propulsive efficiency, low pressure excitation on the hull, and reduced underwater noise
• High torque-density gear technology enables a slender underwater unit that helps minimise hydrodynamic drag
• Cast gear housings further minimize hydrodynamic drag
• An integrated tail fin enhances the rudder effect and helps reduce course-correction losses during transit

L-drive configuration

The Azipull L-drive combines the proven Azipull underwater unit with a vertically mounted electric motor integrated into the steering gear. By eliminating the upper gearbox, the L-drive configuration improves mechanical efficiency while reducing system complexity. Permanent magnet motors maintain high efficiency across a broad speed range and are particularly well suited to vessels that operate for long periods at partial loads.

Benefits of the L-drive

• No upper gearbox required, meaning reduced mechanical losses and maintenance
• Approximately 50% lower space requirement in the thruster room compared with traditional diesel-electric Z-drive installations
• Reduced installation time and simplified shipyard integration
• No separate motor foundations or lengthy coupling alignment

Z-drive configuration

The Azipull Z-drive is available with a conventional upper gear arrangement, with or without a clutch, allowing integration with a variety of propulsion solutions.

Compatible drive options include:

• Direct-drive diesel engines
• Direct-drive gas engines
• Direct-drive ammonia engines
• Horizontally mounted PM or Induction electric motors
• Hybrid propulsion configurations

Controllable and fixed pitch propellers

Azipull is available with fixed pitch (FP), controllable pitch (CP), and full-feathering (CP-F) propellers. In applications optimized for transit efficiency, CP propellers can provide up to 30% higher bollard pull and dynamic positioning thrust compared with equivalent FP propeller solutions.

Advantages of controllable pitch propellers

CP propellers allow effective power utilisation during periods of increased resistance, including:

• Rough weather operations
• Dynamic Positioning
• Towing
• Ice operation
• Safe Return to Port

Full feathering option

For selected propulsion arrangements, full feathering offers additional operational flexibility by:

• Improving propulsion efficiency when individual units are not in use
• Reducing drag from inactive thrusters
• Increasing propeller pitch beyond 30° to increase propulsion efficiency of lightly loaded propellers

Typical applications

• Ferries
• RoPax/Cruise ferries
• Expedition cruise vessels
• Megayachts
• Research vessels
• Platform supply vessels
• Special purpose vessels

Related products

• Thruster Support Pool
• Hydrodynamic Research Centre
• Condition monitoring solutions