A mixed AC/DC low voltage electrical distribution architecture for increasing the payload on ships

This paper presents the development of a novel architecture for the low voltage (LV) electrical distribution on board using a mixed AC/DC approach. The design of the proposed solution is based on a real-world case study, i.e., an electrical distribution grid within a main vertical zone (MVZ) of a large cruise ship. The new electrical architecture is designed with the aim of obtaining a gradual transition toward a totally DC electrical distribution grid on-board. Furthermore, according to the selected technical criteria, the proposed scheme can be implemented on a real ship by using devices either available in the market or easily adaptable from commercial items. The impact of the proposed electrical design on technical volumes and weights of the electrical equipment is evaluated in comparison with the existing solution. Such a comparison shows that the proposed scheme allows a reduction of electrical plant components' weight and volume of about 30%.