A Method for Optimal Operation of Complex Ship Power Systems Employing Shaft Electric Machines

The electrification of ships and, particularly, of their propulsion is an area of intense research nowadays. A very appealing option that allows partial electrification of ship propulsion system is the use of shaft electric machines. Moreover, power dispatch is implemented in ships by using simplistic methods, in contrast to continental power systems where sophisticated optimal power dispatch methods are applied. In this paper, a novel optimal power management algorithm that considers the use of shaft electric machines, the technical and operation limitations of the ship, and the environmental restrictions enforced by the international maritime organization is presented. Several ship propulsion and power generating configurations are analyzed and compared by using technical data from actual diesel engines, alternators, shaft generators, prime, and auxiliary movers. The results clearly indicate the benefits from the application of the proposed algorithm and the obtained cost reduction in the ship power system operation.