Underwater Thruster Motors
Do not operate thrusters for more than 10 seconds outside of water (while dry). Thrusters require water for lubrication and may be damaged without it.
A thruster is a propulsion system that allows an underwater robot to maneuver and carry loads. Many factors influence a thruster’s efficiency, including its electric motor, shafting and sealing, nozzle, and outer geometry.
High Efficiency
Underwater Thruster motors are designed to be able to deliver high thrust for a low power consumption. This makes them ideal for a range of USV and AUV applications. Additionally, our thrusters are able to spin a large-diameter propeller without the need for a gearbox, which further reduces the overall power consumption of the vehicle.
There are several factors that impact the efficiency of an underwater thruster system, including motor type (brushed vs brushless), shafting, propeller diameter and pitch, and the nozzle design. In order to achieve the highest possible efficiency, it is necessary to understand all of these factors and perform the appropriate calculations. These calculations are best performed using a spreadsheet, which can help to compare different motors, choose the right propeller diameter, and predict performance.
As a general rule, electric thrusters are more efficient than brushed motors. However, it is important to note that the efficiency of a thruster system is not only limited by the electrical input; the size and weight of the vehicle will also affect the level of thrust per horsepower of input.
Additionally, there are other factors that influence the lifespan of an underwater thruster. For example, the water quality, sediment density, particle size and composition, throttle level, operating voltage, and the number of thruster cycles will all have a significant impact on the longevity of a thruster.
High Reliability
An underwater thruster motor converts rotational movement to propulsion power, and it is often used to propel AUVs (autonomous underwater vehicles) or ROVs (remotely operated vehicles). It can be electric or hydraulic. The latter typically use larger propellers and underwater thruster motor can produce greater thrust at higher speeds, but they are bulkier than their electric counterparts.
Whether an electric or hydraulic thruster, these devices operate with high reliability. This is largely due to their design and the fact that they are built to be highly durable in marine environments. For example, they are made of durable materials like plastic and stainless steel. They are also able to withstand high temperatures and pressures. In addition, they are sealed with a waterproof coating, making them suitable for use in the ocean.
For example, marine thruster motors have a nozzle that protects the propeller from debris and other potential hazards. They are also designed to be streamlined to limit flow blockage and improve performance. They are also quiet, allowing them to be used in manned submarines and other manned vessels without disrupting the passengers.
In order to operate, a thruster motor requires a brushless DC motor controller (also known as an ESC). This is required in order to properly energize the motor phases in the correct timing. This is what makes them more reliable than brushed motors, which can be damaged by improper wiring or circuit changes.
Low Noise
An underwater thruster motor generates power directly, bypassing mechanical transmission systems. This enables faster response and boosts maneuverability to enable agile operations for USVs, AUVs and other motorized subsea vehicles. It also reduces energy losses and allows for larger propeller diameters without the need to use a gearbox inside the motor.
Whether used as a bow or stern thruster, this system delivers high torque in a compact size for optimum vehicle performance. Its minimal propeller inertia provides superior control and response while the high motor torque allows for a variety of motorized tools to be attached, making it ideal for a range of applications.
The patented design of the underwater thruster motor includes a fully flooded brushless motor windings and stator as well as coated magnets and rotor. This makes it highly durable and easy to operate. Its compact size makes it possible to integrate it into a variety of marine vehicles, including USVs and AUVs.
An important safety consideration is to make sure the underwater thruster motor is always operated only in water. It is not advisable to operate it for more than 10 seconds outside the water (while dry). The bearings require water for lubrication and may be damaged if left exposed. It is important to use proportional controllers to link the thruster with primary propulsion and maneuvering systems, extending run time and reducing noise and power draw.
Easy Maintenance
Although underwater thrusters are extremely reliable, they do require some routine maintenance. Check for things like loose cable connections and fully charged batteries, and regularly clean the tunnel and propeller(s) of marine growth. Depending on the model, you may need to use acidic cleaners; consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions and safety precautions.
The bronze thruster tailpiece is protected from corrosion by zinc anodes—renew these annually or when they are half-eroded (their erode rate is accelerated in warm water). Changing the anodes is easiest with the underwater thruster motor factory boat hauled out, but you can also do it in-water by removing the prop and crawling around inside the tunnel.
Also regularly check the shear pins—which are meant to break and protect the motor if the propeller hits something—to make sure they are intact, and always keep spare shear pins and propellers on hand. A shear pin that breaks can damage the motor and/or propeller, so replacing it is essential for safe operation.
Finally, don’t operate the thruster for more than 10 seconds outside of water (while dry)—the bearings need water to lubricate them and can be damaged if the thruster is operated for an extended period of time while dry. With these easy maintenance tips, you’ll be able to get the most out of your underwater thruster for years to come.