The ocean depths hold limitless potential, from resource exploration to scientific research and underwater infrastructure maintenance. Humanity's quest to explore the underwater world relies heavily on reliable, efficient propulsion systems. The capabilities of underwater robots – their power, precision control, and endurance – directly determine what remarkable tasks they can accomplish.

Underwater thrusters serve as the "engines" for submersible vehicles, combining propellers with motors to provide propulsion and control. These systems are essential for remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), and unmanned surface vessels (USVs).

Leading the field in underwater propulsion technology, Blue Robotics offers two groundbreaking thruster models that are transforming underwater operations: the T200 and T500 thrusters.

The T200 thruster features a patented design that integrates a fully enclosed brushless motor with encapsulated windings and stators, plus coated magnets and rotors. Constructed from durable polycarbonate plastic with marine-grade 316 stainless steel for exposed components, it delivers reliable performance in demanding underwater environments.

Since its 2014 debut, the T200 has become the world's most popular underwater thruster, capable of generating over 5 kg of thrust while maintaining user-friendly operation.

• Fully Enclosed Design: Enables water cooling for the motor and water lubrication for plastic bushings, eliminating the need for shaft seals, magnetic couplings, or pressurized chambers.
• Compact Construction: Minimal part count reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining high performance.
• Optimized Motor: Features a three-phase brushless outrunner motor specifically adapted for underwater use, operating optimally at 16V with compatible electronic speed controllers.

The T500 model delivers triple the thrust of the T200, with a 24V/43.5A power rating. Its high efficiency and rugged design make it ideal for powerful ROVs, surface vessels, and AUVs requiring extended operational range.

These thrusters have demonstrated their capabilities across various underwater platforms:

• BlueROV2: Utilizes six T200 thrusters in a vector configuration for precise six-degree-of-freedom movement, with options to expand to eight thrusters for enhanced stability.
• Commercial Operations: Companies like JM Robotics and Outland Technology have incorporated T500 thrusters in their subsea inspection ROVs used by major energy corporations.
• Specialized Vehicles: The thrusters power diverse platforms including USVs for data collection and compact AUVs for coastal monitoring, aquaculture, and search-and-rescue operations.

The technology extends to other marine applications, including the M200 motor designed for harsh ocean conditions. This motor powers various underwater vehicles while maintaining the T200's performance characteristics in a different form factor.

Innovative designs like the BlueBoat demonstrate the versatility of these propulsion systems, featuring specialized hull shapes and weed-resistant propellers for surface operations.

As underwater exploration advances, reliable propulsion systems remain fundamental to unlocking the ocean's potential. The continued development of thruster technology promises to expand humanity's capabilities beneath the waves.