Compact, powerful and silent: ABB’s AMXE electric motor redefines propulsion for small and medium-sized hybrid and electric vessels
ABB previewed the AMXE, a high power density, water-cooled electric motor developed specifically for small and medium-sized electric and hybrid boats. The AMXE is proposed as a technologically advanced alternative to conventional propulsion systems, meeting the maritime industry‘s growing need for efficiency, compactness and sustainability.
Compactness, power and flexibility
The result of ABB’s experience in sectors such as rail and mining, the AMXE is a three-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM), available in four main sizes (AMXE160S, 160L, 200S and 200L), with power ratings up to 269 kW and peak powers reaching 521 kW, with maximum torques up to 2200 Nm. The motor can operate at speeds up to 5000 rpm and supports voltages up to 690 Vac or 1050 Vdc.
Among its strengths, the power density is the highest ever achieved by ABB for marine applications: the AMXE200L (top-of-the-line model), for example, offers more than 1.67 kW/kg peak power, while maintaining a small weight and footprint (312 kg).
This enables installations on small to medium-sized vessels where space and weight are critical factors, such as tugs, fishing boats, workboats, yachts and sailboats, including units for tourist activities. An emblematic example is the Maid of the Mist fleet, which has been operating all-electric passenger boats in Niagara Falls since 2020. Equipped with ABB propulsion systems, these boats demonstrate the validity of high power density solutions in real-world contexts, even in highly humid environments and intensive operating cycles.
Liquid cooling and silent operation
The entire system is liquid-cooled using a water-glycol mixture, with a nominal flow rate of 20 l/min. This allows active ventilation systems to be eliminated, drastically reducing noise and vibration. This is a key feature not only to improve comfort on board, but also to increase operational reliability in high mechanical stress environments.
The performance of the AMXE motors are described through five different operating points as seen in the torque and speed graph above
Also suitable for open decks
The AMXE is designed to be installed both in the engine room and open-deck, i.e. in environments with high salinity and humidity. For open-deck applications, an optional high corrosion package is available, which includes CX painting according to ISO 12944-2, anodised frame, anticorrosive shaft treatment, stainless steel flanges and cable glands, heaters and painting of machined surfaces. IP66 protection is standard, while IP67 is available as an option.
Easy installation: the smart terminal block
One of the most concrete advantages for shipyard is the new terminal block, designed to simplify wiring and adapt to different power levels. The design provides for 3-, 6- or up to 9-pin configurations, allowing the use of multi-core cables for power distribution, even at high amperages. An alternative with flying leads and LV connectors suitable for outdoor use is also available, while an auxiliary connection box specifically for marine applications is under development.
Customisation pushed
The modular architecture of the AMXE motor allows considerable customisation: special windings, mounting options, SAE flanges, special shafts, temperature sensors, specific connectors, heating elements and dedicated paint finishes can be configured according to application needs. Pre-configured versions for propulsion or open-deck applications are also available.
Inverter HES880: the ideal complement
AMXE is complemented by the HES880 inverter, designed for cabinet-less operation and IP67 protection. In addition to the inverter motor function, it integrates a rectifier, DC/DC converter and auxiliary power management. With its maintenance-free, liquid-cooled design and the absence of electrolytic capacitors, the HES880 is ideal for compact installations subject to strong vibrations. Available in three sizes (up to 900 A, 780 kW), it supports asynchronous, permanent magnet and SynRM motors.
