ABB Unveils Next-Generation Permanent Magnet Motors for Global Maritime Applications
Time:2026-05-06 Browse: 0
Subtitle:
High-efficiency, compact, and low-noise motors set a new benchmark for electrified vessels
Body:
ABB has officially launched its new series of water-jacket-cooled permanent magnet (PM) motors, further expanding its motor product portfolio. Designed to meet the growing demand for compact, energy-efficient, and low-noise solutions, these motors are optimized for use with ABB drives, enabling streamlined system integration into modern electrified architectures.
Maritime Industry Focus
As the shipping sector increasingly transitions to electrification, hybrid propulsion, and alternative fuels, ABB’s new PM motor series is poised to become a core technology for next-generation vessels. The motors offer higher efficiency, reduced noise, and superior maneuverability, making them particularly suitable for tugboats, offshore support vessels, ferries, and hybrid ships.
Product Specifications and Performance
Frame sizes: 500 and 710, with a maximum power output of up to 5 MW; larger sizes are available on request to accommodate future applications.
Efficiency: Up to 98%, with high torque density and significantly reduced losses across the operating range.
Environmental impact: High efficiency directly translates into lower energy consumption, reduced fuel or battery use, and lower CO₂ emissions over the motor’s lifecycle.
Design Advantages
The motors feature a water-jacket cooling system and optimized mechanical structure, eliminating the need for external fan units or top-mounted coolers. Compared with traditional alternatives, customers benefit from:
Up to 60% reduction in installation volume
30–40% lower vertical height
5–15% weight reduction
These benefits are particularly valuable for L-type azimuth thrusters, electric tugboats, offshore support vessels, and other space-constrained engine rooms.
Executive Insight
Tatu Järvenpää, ABB Motors & Generators Business Line Manager, stated:
"Across industries, our customers are committed to decarbonization, improved energy efficiency, and integrating more functionality into smaller spaces. This new PM motor series combines ABB’s latest advances in magnetic materials, cooling innovations, and engineering to deliver higher power in a smaller footprint while maintaining the reliability and lifecycle performance ABB is known for. Coupled with ABB drives, customers receive a seamless integrated solution supported by ABB’s global service network."
Robustness and Reliability
Fully enclosed rotor design with magnetic protection and ABB patented PM module technology, resistant to corrosion and harsh environments.
Uniform internal circulation cooling ensures stable temperatures around magnet modules and coil ends, enhancing demagnetization resistance and long-term reliability.
