ZF Marine introduces POD 4900 for larger vessels
ZF Marine has expanded its pod propulsion line-up with the introduction of the new POD 4900, developed for commercial and recreational vessels up to 150ft. The system is compatible with engines up to 2,000hp at 2,450rpm.
The POD 4900 will make its debut on the Azimut Grande 30M superyacht, integrated as part of a complete power package supplied in collaboration with Rolls-Royce Power Systems.
When ZF unveiled its first pod propulsion system, the POD 4600, at the Cannes Yachting Festival in 2022, the company made quite a splash. Since market launch, ZF has delivered more than 30 systems to shipyards worldwide.
With the POD 4900, ZF builds upon its experience as a technology leader, extending the power range upwards to larger vessels measuring 80ft to 150ft. The POD 4900 is compatible with engines with a maximum of 6,107nm of input torque, and a typical speed range of 20 to 35 knots.
Federico Decio, head of business unit marine & special driveline technology at ZF, says: “With these specs, our product is uniquely suited for ships where both powerful performance and high maneuverability are key.”
A Grande introduction
The POD 4900’s first application will be onboard the Azimut Grande 30M superyacht. ZF worked closely with both the Italian shipbuilder and Rolls-Royce Power Systems, which designed integrated power packs including the ZF propulsion system. All in all, two units will deliver 1,920hp each.
“Azimut’s vessels have been a great showcase for our pod propulsion’s unique strengths,” says Decio. “After our initial project back in 2022 with the POD 4600 in the Azimut Grande 26M, we are more than happy to continue this path of innovation with the new POD 4900. We are also delighted to see the results of our close partnership with Rolls-Royce Power Systems. Their invaluable experience as integrators for marine applications brings unmatched performance to the new superyacht.”
“The ZF POD gives us the opportunity to make the best possible use of our high-performance, efficient mtu engine, significantly reducing fuel consumption and improving maneuverability. The system we have integrated and coordinated is the ideal combination because it is more than just the sum of its components,” says Denise Kurtulus, senior vice president global marine, Rolls-Royce Power Systems.
Pod propulsion
Depending on vessel type and size, the POD 4900 system can be installed in a twin, triple or quadruple layout. According to ZF, its large gear reduction ratio (2,434-2,612) allows for larger counter-rotating propellers, increasing efficiency – up to 20 percent in comparison to shaftline propulsion systems in the same power range.
ZF says the POD 4900’s broad steering angle of +30°/-30° and its integration with ZF’s TotalCommand and joystick steering solutions, offers ease of operation and smooth maneuvering. Like its smaller sibling, the POD 4900 features an optimised hydrodynamic design with corrosion-resistant housing from nickel aluminum bronze and stainless steel.
ZF has achieved all main approval certifications from maritime authorities worldwide. The POD 4900 is certified for up to 3,000 hours of operation per year. In addition to large pleasure and leisure craft, the propulsion system is therefore rated for medium commercial applications, like windfarm or crew transfer vessels and ferries.
