Hybrid Propulsion system

Hybrid Systems

DANIEL POSTS:
I have a small Boat of about 15 m. I just want to know about
what do you mean by Hybrid propulsion system? how it is working?

which are the companies which made Hybrid propulsion system for pleasure craft or yachts?

Daniel,

When referring to "hybrid" systems, this can be any combination of differing methods to produce, store and then transmit energy to propel the vessel. Your reference is most likely to the diesel/electric combination although it could certainly entertain any number of various alternatives ranging from nuc/steam propulsion (ok, don't jump) to hydrogen/electric. As noted in many of these posts, the idea of diesel/electric power has been around for quite some time in other applications. (Most trains have employed this method for decades and diesel/electric subs have been around forever.) The physics of this concept are by no means revolutionary and the practical application to the recreational boating industry (within very strict parameters) appears to be gaining momentum with several companies currently offering specific product lines.

Since the recreational boating applications are relatively recent, logic dictates several concerns.

First, buy from a long standing, reputable manufacturer that provides wide ranging support of the installation and warranty concerns. Avoid here any "one man or small shop" products or installers that may or may not be available in the future. As with any first generation product, there is bound to be any number "reman updates" along the way and you certainly want them covered under warranty.

Secondly, be sure to require a specific wiring schematic for the installation of the generators, batteries and motors along with a specification sheet of the vessel's performance and range upon completion. While this is generaaly SOP (Fischer Panda has a nice interactive worksheet online that can be used for these calculations), you haven't a leg to stand in it's absence. (Besides you must wonder why such documentation would not be provided).

Again, this is not rocket science nor is it cutting edge technology. Do the math yourself when calculating the appropriate KW motor size. Talk to the boat designer about displacement concerns. Inquire as to other vessels that have successful installations of like products and then require personal contact referrals. After all, you are investing a ton of money in these electric drives and, with hew vessels, are configuring/designing your boat in such a fashion that re-fitting, if necessary, with combustion motors/gears will be cost prohibitive and necessarily contrary to design parameters. I personally know of several that underwent such a re-fit.

Equally important, research the manufacturer/installer. Has the company been around for some time or has the company "changed hands" repeatedly which by it's very nature relieves the company from it's obligations under unfulfilled contracts and unsatisfied warranty claims.

All in all, I think the technology interesting especially when combined with the advent of sans diesel dcv re-generation capabilities. Another story, another time.

 

Eric, I quite agree that Nigel has closely followed the 'hybrid' development. One more addition to the mfgs is Fischer Panda (no personal/professional affiliation). I only bring this to reader's attention because they are developing "re-generation" technology whereby the electric motors that drive the propshafts also serve to recharge the main battery bank under certain sailing conditions. This certainly sounds great in theory.