Can Lyen Azimuth Thruster really boost efficiency for fireboats?

A series of 800-tonne fireboats built for Qinzhou Port choose LYEN for propulsion to create more value in maritime firefighting technology. Why did they choose this advanced propulsion solution, and how will it enhance operational performance?

The efficient heart of these fireboats is LYEN’s Azimuth Thruster (LAT) (with Controllable Pitch) system, designed to optimize thrust response across all operating conditions. This system significantly enhances maneuverability and fuel efficiency - critical factors forrapid-response firefighting vessels.

Because the LYEN LAT system offers precisepitch control and 360-degree steering capability, it allows fireboats toachieve maximum thrust while maintaining operational stability. This is particularly valuable when:

• Navigating narrow waterways at high speeds

• Positioning precisely alongside burning vessels

• Operating firefighting pumps without compromising propulsion

The system’s intelligent load distribution also minimizes engine strain during high-demand scenarios like simultaneous pump operation, directly contributing to reduced maintenance costs and extended service life.

A complete propulsion solution that makescomplex operations simple

The fireboats are being built by CSSC Guangxi Shipyard Co., Ltd., with LYEN providing a comprehensive propulsion package.

The integrated health monitoring system represents a major technological advancement. By continuously tracking key parameters like water saturation, it enables predictive maintenance that prevents unexpected failures during critical operations.

‘Qinzhou Port needed a propulsion partner capable of delivering complete system integration,’ says our engineer at LYEN Marine. ‘Our local engineering team worked closely with both the shipyard and fireboat operators to ensure LAT system met their exacting requirements for rapid response and operational reliability.’

Precision Load Distribution for Maximum Engine Efficiency

The project requires main engines to simultaneously drive firefighting pumps. LAT system address this challenge through precise pitch control, intelligently distributing engine loads tomaintain stable operation even under high pump loads. With industry-leading response times, the system achieves optimal thrust matching across various conditions, significantly enhancing firefighting efficiency.

Low Pressure, Low Noise & Health Monitoring

LYEN’s Azimuth Thruster system incorporates multiple advanced technologies:

• Low-pressure control maintains strong propulsion while reducing hydraulic pressure, minimizing component wear and extending service life

• Optimized hydrodynamic blade design significantly lowers operational noise, crucial for sensitive rescue operations and marine life protection

• Patented health monitoring system tracks key parameters through real-time data analysis, enabling predictive maintenance that enhances operational safety, reduces costs, and supports lifecycle management

As ports worldwide modernize their emergency response fleets, the Qinzhou Port project really demonstrates how our LAT can directly enhance maritime safety and operational efficiency.