Leonardo DRS has been delivering PM (permanent magnet) technology for over 30 years. Working in the oil and gas industry and then expanding to marine and naval propulsion, Leonard DRS has continued to develop new approaches while making continuous improvements in cooling, power density, reliability, and cost.

Leonardo Drs marine hybrid electric drive (HED) achievements

The gear mounted auxiliary Hed propulsion system on the U.S. coast guard’s newest cutter utilizes one of the world’s most power dense permanent magnet motors, the PA-44, which provides 466 kW of power while weighing only 195 kg.

Also the newest frigate in the Rok navy, the South Korean navy FFX-II utilizes the shaft mounted, bearingless, 1.7 MW machines which provide the power density and quietness needed for their anti-submarine warfare mission.

leonardo drs pm

Fully integrated electric drive achievements

The U.S. navy DDG1000 engineering development model mounts the 36.5 MW permanent magnet motor system that can provide 2.7 million Nm of torque and that was completed and fully tested in 2008. Leonardo DRS is also currently developing the propulsion motor for the U.S. Navy’s newest ballistic missile submarine, the U.S. navy Columbia class Ssbn.

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The benefits of permanent magnet machines according to Leonardo Drs

The power density of PM machines is superior for shaft mounted applications and when space is tight, it is up to 50% smaller than comparable induction machines. Over the life cycle of the ship the 2-4% greater efficiency at full load and up to 30% greater efficiency at partial loads from PM machines leads to fuel and cost savings. With two available field configurations (axial or radial) and larger air gaps enabling bearingless designs, PM machines offer flexible design options. The larger air gaps in PM machines improve reliability and resistance to shock due to the fact that the rotor is much less likely to hit or rub the stator during a shock excursion. These machines also provide a controllable back electromotive force (BEMF) and less rotor windage, which reduces noise and vibration.

Highlights

AS Labruna launches the HEVOlution range of hybrid generators

The first model in the range, HEVOlution 80-37, made its world debut at the Metstrade in Amsterdam, the most prestigious international trade fair for nautical components, representing a decisive step towards innovative and environmentally friendly energy solutions.

Diesel of the Year 2025: dawn of the Hyundai DX05 & DX08

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Alternative Engine Award: FPT under the sign of multi-fuel

An award that seems tailor-made for the XC13 by FPT Industrial. It is the Alternative Engine Award. The 13-litre has always been the star of the Cursor family and in the new X version it has been applied since its birth to IVECO trucks and, in the hydrogen version, has been on the ski slopes for thr...

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