Marine propulsion systems

Whether for commercial or personal use, ships have for centuries been one of the most popular and versatile modes of transportation. For that reason, safety, reliability and efficiency are among the basic requirements of marine propulsion systems. ZF Marine, a world leader in the design and development of complete propulsion systems for all types of vessels, guarantees products of superior technology and quality.

Craft transmissions provide propulsion

• Pleasure craft transmissions: The range of ZF Marine transmissions for the pleasure craft segment is designed for ship engines of up to 1,340 kW (1800 bhp) output. The mechanically actuated “M” series transmissions are primarily installed in sailboats and small motor-propelled craft, while the hydraulically actuated transmissions are used in a wide variety of motor yachts.
• Fast craft transmissions: Megayachts, customs, navy and coastguard vessels, and fast ferries all require compact, high-performance transmissions. Most of these transmissions are specially designed for these applications and configured to meet the ship designers’ needs.
• Commercial craft transmissions: Heavy-duty gearboxes with cast-iron casings and deep ratios are fitted into all types of commercial vessels, from tugs to tankers, fishing boats and container ships. The largest gearbox series is based on a modular design and includes reversing, non-reversing and simple reduction transmissions with no clutch.

Individual control systems

ZF Marine’s propulsion control systems are at the cutting edge of electronics. These products incorporate reliable, top-notch hardware and software developed for easy operation and maintenance. A wide variety of systems ensures the best technical solution, no matter the type of vessel or application – single engine, multi-engine or multi-station.

The right propeller for every situation

Shaftline systems: ZF Marine supplies complete shaftline systems with all components, such as transmissions, propellers, shafts, stuffing boxes, bearings, struts and rudders, as well as electronic control systems. Components can be adapted to the customer's wishes (ship designer, motor manufacturer or end user), and meet the highest quality standards. Controllable and fixed pitch propellers: ZF Marine offers a full range of the highest-quality controllable pitch propellers (CPP) and fixed pitch propellers (FPP) for luxury motor yachts and fast ships. Every propeller is custom-made to match the characteristic features of a ship and its engines. Different propeller blade profiles are available to ensure optimal efficiency and performance.

POD drives

With its efficient and compact POD drives, ZF Marine offers hitherto unparalleled maneuverability allied to safety and steering comfort. Reliable, smooth hydraulics control both the POD drive and the vertical trim rudders. Yacht owners can count on POD drives to deliver greater fuel economy (30% better) and higher speed (15% better) when compared to classic shaftline propulsion systems.

Surface propulsion systems

With its robust, compact hydraulic steering system and vertical trim rudders, the SeaRex product series is tailor-made for modern, high-performance engines. The MiniRex product series, on the other hand, is a reliable, modern propulsion system that is also affordable for the average boat owner.