The XeroPoint Hybrid Solution

The XeroPoint hybrid  power and propulsion system for marine vessels comprises a diesel engine and electric motor configured to drive a common output shaft. The diesel engine or electric motor can independently or simultaneously drive the propulsion shaft. With only the diesel providing power the electric motor acts as a shaft generator providing power to meet the vessels hotel loads. Auxiliary generators and electrical storage (optional) provide power for electric propulsion and power.  

The XeroPoint power management system configures the propulsion and power options to most efficiently meet the needs of the operation. 

The XeroPoint electrical system is based on a common DC bus arrangement that automatically maintains constant voltage using all available sources of electrical supply while meeting the needs of propulsion and hotel loads. The system allows large electrical deck appliances such as towing winches to regenerate their power back to the DC bus and electrical storage device, thus avoiding the need for large resistors.

Modes of Operation

The flexibility in propulsion and power options provides a greater number of efficient modes of vessel operation. The type of vessel and its duty cycle will ultimately decide the actual modes best suited for the application. Here are examples;.

Standby or Idle

During standby or very low power operations electrical energy storage - e.g. batteries - permits the vessel to be operated in zero emission/silent mode, with no rotating machinery in operation.

Slow Transit

During low power operation the system operates as conventional diesel electric plant. Propulsion and hotel loads are met by a combination of diesel generators and electrical storage.

Mid Range

When vessel power requirements are within the efficient operating range of the main propulsion diesels, the vessel operates as a conventional, diesel only system. The shaft motor/generators support hotel loads using modern conversion technology to provide constant voltage regardless of shaft speed.

Full Power

During high power, the diesel and shaft motor work together to provide propulsion. The shaft motor augments diesel power while simultaneously increasing system responsiveness with its superior low end torque characteristics.

December 11, 2009 - XeroPoint Hybrid System key ingredient in latest awards for Foss Maritime. Read more here....

November 25, 2009 - XeroPoint Hybrid system to be deployed on new whale watch catamaran.

January 13, 2009 - Official launch ceremony of the World's first hybrid Tug is scheduled for January 23rd in Long Beach, California. read more here....

August 6, 2008 - CBC News PEI company instrumental in launch of hybrid tugboat. Read more here...

April 2, 2008 - Xeropoint and Foss Maritime to present Hybrid Tug Paper at the International Tug & Salvage Conference in Singapore. Download the abstract here.

Seattle, March 2, 2007 - Foss Maritime chooses XeroPoint Hybrid Technology to power its new Hybrid Dolphin class ship assist tug. read more here....