INTERFACING THE LM1600 GAS TURBINE WITH ADVANCED MARINE VESSELS

Three LM1600 gas turbine propulsion modules are being installed in the high-speed, long-range motor yacht, DESTRIERO. The propulsion system of this advanced vessel consists of three gas turbines, each capable of producing 19,600 horsepower, driving individual water jets. Motoren- und Turbinen-Union (MTU) has developed a lightweight module for the GE LM1600 marine gas turbine. The successful deployment of these modules depends on vessel design considerations such as hull structure, machinery arrangements, aesthetics, and support systems design. This paper focuses on the design interface factors which the naval architect/marine engineer must consider when using one or more of these modules for powering large high-speed yachts, fast commercial vessels, and military craft. The interface factors will include providing quality combustion and cooling air to the module, exhaust requirements, module mounting, dynamics of the drive train, acoustic levels, heat rejection, and support system requirements.