Permanent magnet machines for marine applications

The Switch permanent magnet machines provide maximum flexibility by operating seamlessly as both generators and propulsion motors. Engineered specifically for diverse vessel types, they enable efficient and reliable power transmission while minimizing mechanical complexity.

Additionally, we extensively test all permanent magnet machines at our Large Drive Test Center to verify performance under operating conditions. As a result, they align with international standards and classification requirements, providing shipowners trusted, future-ready propulsion motors and shaft generators.

Save 5,000 tons of CO²
Our average permanent magnet marine shaft generator can save up to 5,000 tons of CO2 over a vessel’s lifetime – or 250 tons annually. This covers the annual CO2 footprint of 37 persons in the EU. So far, over 600 machines have been sold, covering the carbon footprint of over 22,000 people.
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Brochure: The Switch permanent magnet machines for marine

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Widest range of permanent magnet machines available

PMM2000M

Product
Optimized for large container ships, The Switch PMM2000M ensures smooth, low-speed operation, high efficiency, and maximum uptime across long ocean routes.
  • Torque: 580–1500 kNm
  • Rotating speed: 0–130 rpm
  • Application: Typically used in 4–12 MW direct-drive systems
Single_PMM2000M-shaft_The_Switch

PMM1500M

Product
The PMM1500M delivers powerful, reliable performance where it matters most, making it an ideal choice for bulkers, gas carriers, and tankers operating under heavy loads and long duty cycles.
  • Torque: 220–630 kNm
  • Rotating speed: 0–220 rpm
  • Application: Typically used in 2–4 MW direct-drive systems
PMM1500M

PMM1200M

Product
The PMM1200M is a more compact direct-drive machine, delivering high torque performance for vessels where space and efficiency are critical.
  • Torque: 200–450 kNm
  • Rotating speed: 0–250 rpm
  • Application: Typically used in 1–3 MW direct-drive systems
PMM1200M

PMM1000M

Product
The PMM1000M is a versatile machine engineered for a wide range of vessels, including bulkers, PCCs, tankers, special purpose vessels, and gas carriers making it the ideal choice for diverse fleet requirements.
  • Torque: 73–230 kNm
  • Rotating speed: 0–250 rpm
  • Application: Typically used in 1–2 MW direct-drive systems
PMM1000M

PMM850M

Product
The PMM850M permanent magnet machine is recognized for its compact design and high-efficiency performance making it an ideal choice for space-constrained vessels such as regional tankers, feeders, and smaller cargo ships.
  • Torque: 70–230 kNm
  • Rotating speed: 0–400 rpm
  • Application: Typically used in 0.5–2 MW shaft generator and propulsion motor applications
PMM850M

Advantages of permanent magnet machines

Permanent magnet (PM) technology is key to higher efficiency in shaft generator and direct propulsion applications.

The design requires a strong magnetic field to link the stator and rotor for electromechanical power conversion. Traditionally, a separate winding supplied the field with electric current.

Modern Neodymium magnets create the magnetic field more simply and efficiently, yielding a technically advanced machine. That’s why their use in PM machines have made them the top choice for wind power – and now also for marine.

Higher efficiencyNo power is consumed to create the magnetic field, reducing losses and improving overall efficiency.

Rotor losses close to zero
Better reliability and less maintenanceNo rotor windings, slip rings, exciters or automatic voltage regulators
Reduced space requirementsHigher air gap tangential stress results in more compact machine

Shorter and narrower, especially in low-speed applications
Enhanced shaft line dynamicsMuch smaller rotating mass and inertia

Reduced torsional vibrations, lateral vibrations and rotor deflections