Marine propulsion control unit set for show debut

The PRM Marine Propulsion Control (MPC) unit, an all-new system providing full electronic control over engine throttle and gear engagement, will be launched by Newage Transmissions as part of the company's presentation on stand 1.310 at the METS International Marine Equipment Trade Show (taking place in Amsterdam between 15th and 17th November 2005). Providing soft gear engagement - for improved comfort, increased vessel control and reduced component wear - the MPC system also features a trolling capability (variable propeller speed at constant engine revs) and the automatic adjustment of engine power to match the demands of engine-driven ancillaries, such as power take off (PTO) units. Designed specifically for PRM series marine transmissions, the new system is suitable for use with both mechanical and electronically controlled engines.

The unit's fully interlocked, closed loop control provides stable gearbox output speeds under all engine load conditions.

In addition, it allows the sizing of hydraulic pumps and accessories to be optimised enabling the use of more powerful ancillary equipment in many applications.

Further features of the new system include programmable software to enable the system to be tailored to individual application requirements, and the availability of single, twin or fly-bridge controls, whose operation is synchronised through the unit's electronic control system.

For added safety, the new MPC unit also offers a full manual override in the event of an onboard electrical failure.

Other high efficiency PRM marine transmissions equipment to be displayed at METS will include lightweight, all mechanical units designed for the rapidly-expanding pleasure craft and light commercial market; heavy duty PRM 750 workboat transmissions; and the company's recently introduced top-of-the range PRM 1750 gearboxes for use with engines rated at up to 457kW.

With a maximum torque capacity of 1750Nm, this heavy duty unit is available in both shallow or deep gearcase configurations, with a range of standard ratios from 1.22:1 to 4.90:1.

Like other PRM gearboxes, the latest model features a dual countershaft design that enables full input power to be transmitted in both ahead or astern.

As a result, units are equally suitable for left or right hand propeller rotations - as well as multiple engine installations.

They also carry Lloyd's approved commercial ratings and are backed by a full two year warranty and the company's worldwide dealer and customer support network.