Modern starting methods of large thrusters supplied by the power network of a ship

In this paper, thruster startup effects on the grid power quality of an All-Electric-Ship are investigated. The case of a Roll on-Roll out (Ro-Ro) ship power system is considered. More specifically, power system parameters are evaluated while a thruster motor starts either directly connected to the main voltage bus of the ship or driven by an electronic soft starter controlled by different control methods. The ship electric power system as well as the thruster system is simulated and results regarding power quality issues are evaluated.