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Z-drive

A Z-drive is a type of azimuth thruster in which the pod-mounted propellers are driven mechanically rather than electrically. Azimuth thruster pods can be rotated through a full 360 degrees, allowing for rapid changes in thrust direction and eliminating the need for a conventional rudder. This form of power transmission is called a Z-drive because the rotary motion has to make two right angle turns, thus looking a bit like the letter "Z". This name is used to make clear the arrangement of drive is different from L-drive

The Z-drive transmission was used in the first azimuth thrusters built by Hollming in Finland in the 1960s under the Aquamaster brand name.^[1]

The Voith-Schneider marine propulsion system (also mechanically linked) can also quickly change the direction of thrust.

See also

• Azipod
• Propulsor
• L-drive

Notes

• Pleuger L- and Z-drive