CSSC-developed podded propulsors rival imports

Engineers at China State Shipbuilding Corp have developed a series of high-power podded propulsors, challenging foreign manufacturers' long-standing dominance in this critical marine technology sector after 18 years of research. The Shanghai Marine Equipment Research Institute, a CSSC subsidiary, has designed and built three types of podded propulsors under the S-POD brand, each tailored for diverse operational needs.

The L-type propulsor, with a power range of 1.3 to 5 megawatts, is compact and efficient, ideal for research vessels and law-enforcement ships over 1,000 metric tons. Its deployment can save up to 30% of internal space on vessels like the Zhuhai Yun and Tongji. The T-type covers 1.3 to 18 MW, designed for large vessels including cruise ships and offshore platforms, and the Shanghai institute constructed China's first 10-MW podded propulsor, securing orders for it.

The TI-type, ranging from 2 to 15 MW, is ice-breaking, suitable for polar research vessels and icebreakers. Podded propulsors, among the world's most advanced electric marine propulsion systems, offer over 20% energy efficiency improvement and substantially reduced vibration and noise. Their 360-degree rotation capability enables complex maneuvers, enhancing navigation flexibility and safety.

Developed since 2007, the institute completed a 10-MW model in 2023, ending China's decade-long reliance on foreign imports in this sector.