MARINE PROPULSION
Sound Propeller Systems’ SPS 1500 azimuth Z-drive system is assembled in the test stand
at the company’s Seattle, Wash., headquarters. The system targets primary propulsion
applications in vessels such as harbor assist tugs, river pushers, and offshore logistic
supply and research vessels.
FULL AHEAD
Sound Propeller Systems develops Z-drive aimed
at primary propulsion market
BY JACK BURKE
Sound Propeller Systems has developed a 1500 hp Z-drive azimuth thruster rated for
primary propulsion in vessels such
as harbor assist tugs, river pushers,
offshore logistic supply vessels and
research vessels.
The SPS 1500 Azimuth Thruster
was developed over the span of four
years by the Seattle, Wash., company, said Mike Wiegand, lead designer
on the project and one of the company’s four owners.
“When we started on this project, we
were looking to make a U.S.-produced
Z-drive,” Wiegand said. “But as we
got into the process, we thought ‘Wait
a minute, we’ve got to build a better
mouse trap or it isn’t worth doing.’
“The challenge for us was not just
designing a machine, but the whole
aspect of creating a relationship with
the domestic vendor base to develop
a product of this magnitude from the
ground up.”
He said the company worked espe-
cially closely with Oerlikon Fairfield
throughout the process because the
design presented many gearing chal-
lenges. Fairfield supplied all of the
gears and splines for the 15 ft. tall,
40,000 lb. Z-drive system.
