Summary
- Molabo announced the delivery of a 16-meter firefighting and rescue boat to the Kiel fire department equipped with a hybrid waterjet propulsion system using Molabo’s electric motors
- The boat is powered by two 50 kW electric drives running on Molabo’s 48 V technology and two jet drives
- It can operate in electric, diesel, or boost mode, reaching a top speed of 6.8 knots in electric mode
- Molabo’s drive system is safe-to-touch, reducing risks and eliminating propeller hazard
- Molabo prioritizes safety and developed the safe-to-touch high-performance electric drive
Article
Molabo, a German manufacturer of 48-volt electric motors, recently announced the delivery of a 16-meter-long firefighting and rescue boat to the Kiel, Germany, fire department. The boat, named RESCUE 1500, was built by Finnish shipyard Kewatec and is equipped with a hybrid waterjet propulsion system powered by Molabo’s Aries i50 electric motors. The vessel is based on Kewatec’s e-FiFi 1470 design and features two 50 kW electric drives running on Molabo’s 48 V technology, along with two jet drives from DOEN Waterjets, in addition to standard combustion engines.
The RESCUE 1500 boat is capable of operating in electric, diesel, or boost mode. In boost mode, both the electric and combustion drive trains are activated, adding up to 3.5 knots to the diesel mode’s top speed. The vessel can reach a top speed of 6.8 knots in electric mode, which exceeds the contractual requirement of maintaining speeds of up to 6 knots for up to two hours. This versatility in propulsion systems allows for optimal performance during various emergency situations.
One of the key advantages of Molabo’s electric motors is their safe-to-touch design, which eliminates the need for specialized personnel trained to handle high voltage during installation, repair, and maintenance. This feature not only reduces the risk to crew, emergency workers, and the public but also ensures the overall safety of the vessel. Additionally, the boat’s jet drives replace traditional propellers, further reducing the risk of hazards in the water. Molabo’s commitment to safety is evident in their development of high-performance electric drives that prioritize the well-being of all individuals involved.
The collaboration between Molabo, Kewatec, and DOEN Waterjets highlights the innovative approach to maritime propulsion systems, combining cutting-edge technology with a focus on safety and performance. The use of electric motors in maritime applications offers numerous benefits, including reduced emissions, quieter operation, and increased efficiency. The successful integration of electric propulsion into the RESCUE 1500 boat demonstrates its viability in demanding situations such as firefighting and rescue operations.
By incorporating Molabo’s Aries i50 electric motors into the hybrid waterjet propulsion system of the RESCUE 1500 boat, the Kiel fire department now possesses a state-of-the-art vessel that delivers exceptional performance while prioritizing safety. The ability to operate in multiple modes allows for flexibility in responding to emergencies, ensuring optimal speed and maneuverability when needed. This successful project serves as a testament to the capabilities of electric propulsion technology in the maritime industry and sets a new standard for firefighting and rescue boats worldwide.
In conclusion, the delivery of the RESCUE 1500 boat equipped with Molabo’s electric motors marks a significant milestone in the field of maritime propulsion systems. The collaboration between Molabo, Kewatec, and DOEN Waterjets has resulted in a cutting-edge vessel that combines high performance with a focus on safety. By utilizing electric drives in the hybrid propulsion system, the Kiel fire department now has a versatile and efficient boat that meets the demands of firefighting and rescue operations. This project exemplifies the potential of electric motors in marine applications and sets a new standard for the industry in terms of sustainability, safety, and performance.
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