Description
The optimized propeller and duct geometry have been validated through simulation, practical testing, and long-term underwater evaluation. Each unit undergoes full-power underwater testing during production and may retain minor water residue from final validation.
Durability testing has demonstrated >200 hours of continuous rotation under controlled freshwater indoor conditions. The thruster operates across a voltage range of 10 – 25.2 VDC. At 24 V, it delivers approximately 3.7 kgf of forward thrust under standard test conditions, with maximum thrust approaching ~4 kgf near the upper end of the operating voltage range. When the weed guard is installed, thrust and current draw may vary slightly depending on operating direction and test conditions.
Wiring is provided via the included Deep-Sea 3-Core (20 AWG) Underwater Cable, approximately 900 mm in length. The cable is compatible with Blu-Sub M10 gland cable penetrators and the dedicated Mid-Depth M8 gland cable penetrator for watertight enclosure integration.
The unit mounts using 4 × M3 threaded inserts plus 1 × M5 central threaded insert with a mounting hole spacing of 15 × 25 mm. Suitable for both saltwater and freshwater environments, the thruster should be rinsed with clean water after saltwater use to help reduce corrosion risk.
Note: A compatible cable penetrator is required to waterproof and secure the cable connection to your enclosure. Select a penetrator model that matches your required depth rating and housing configuration.
Cable Penetrator Options
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Note: A compatible cable penetrator is required to waterproof and secure the cable connection to your enclosure. The Blu-Thrust Z60 & Z60E Underwater Thruster is supplied with a Deep-Sea 3-Core (20 AWG) Underwater Cable, pressure-rated for 300 m / 984 ft operation when paired with the correct penetrator. Choose an option below that matches your depth rating and housing requirements.
Both the standard (non-ESC) and built-in ESC versions use the same 3-core cable type. The standard (Z60) version provides three motor phase wires (red / yellow / black) for connection to an external ESC. The built-in ESC version (Z60E) uses a different internal wiring configuration—use the housing color to identify the correct version and avoid incorrect wiring.
Blu-Sub offers several compatible gland cable penetrators designed to work with this thruster’s subsea power cable:
Deep-Sea M10 Gland Cable Penetrators – M10-threaded compression gland penetrators for secure strain relief and modular enclosure integration. Depth Rating: Up to 1,000 m / 3,281 ft
Low-Depth M10 Gland Cable Penetrators – Compact, cost-effective solution for shallow-water or lower-pressure applications. Depth Rating: Up to 100 m / 328 ft
Mid-Depth M8 Gland Cable Penetrator – Dedicated thruster-compatible penetrator designed specifically for the Blu-Thrust Z60 cable configuration. Depth Rating: Up to 300 m / 984 ft
Higher-Thrust Alternative – Blu-Thrust Z80 Series
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Blu-Thrust Z80 & Z80E Underwater Thruster
A larger, higher-thrust propulsion platform designed for applications requiring increased output and torque capacity. While the Z60 series prioritizes compact integration and space efficiency, the Z80 series delivers greater maximum thrust and mechanical robustness for heavier vehicles, higher-speed operation, or payload-intensive subsea systems. Available in both standard (external ESC) and built-in trapezoidal ESC configurations.
Compatible Cable Connectors & Coupling Hardware
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About the Cable:
The Blu-Thrust Z60 & Z60E Underwater Thruster is supplied with a
Deep-Sea 3-Core (20 AWG) Underwater Cable,
a rugged subsea cable designed for power transmission to propulsion systems. Both thruster versions (standard non-ESC and built-in ESC) use the same cable type, with only the internal wiring configuration differing.
The standard (Z60) version provides three motor phase wires (red / yellow / black) for connection to an external ESC. The built-in ESC version (Z60E) integrates a trapezoidal ESC within the housing and uses a different internal wiring configuration. Use the housing color to identify the correct version before wiring.
For modular setups, quick-disconnect capability, or extended cable runs, the following compatible connection options are available:
Deep-Sea Cable Connectors – Female Socket & Male Plug
Inline plug-and-socket connectors that allow the thruster’s cable to be terminated with sealed ends for removable, watertight propulsion connections.
Deep-Sea Cable Connectors – M10 Bulkhead
Panel-mounted connector designed for thruster cable pass-through on enclosure walls or end-caps. Requires a matching plug to form a sealed, high-pressure connection.
Deep-Sea Cable Connectors – Dummy Sealing Cap
Protects unused thruster cable connectors during storage, transport, or inactive operation by sealing off exposed ends against water ingress.
Subsea M10 Coupling Tube
Enables secure inline splicing of thruster cables using compatible gland penetrators and potting compound.
Compatible Subsea Enclosure Options
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The Blu-Thrust Z60 & Z60E Underwater Thruster is supplied with a Deep-Sea 3-Core (20 AWG) Underwater Cable, pressure-rated for 300 m / 984 ft when paired with a compatible gland penetrator. Once the cable is routed into your housing through the chosen penetrator, the thruster can be secured to your ROV frame or mounting structure using its built-in 4 × M3 threads plus 1 × M5 central thread with a mounting hole spacing of 15 × 25 mm. Both the standard and built-in ESC versions share identical mounting dimensions and enclosure compatibility.
Subsea Watertight Enclosure Box
Compact aluminum enclosure rated to 300 m, pre-drilled with twenty M10 ports for penetrator installation—ideal for direct thruster cable pass-through without modification.
Subsea Enclosure Acrylic Tube
Transparent cast acrylic body rated to 250 m, compatible with Blu-Sub aluminum flanges and end-caps. Select end-caps with penetrator ports to route thruster cables cleanly into the enclosure.
Subsea Enclosure Aluminum Tube
Rugged aluminum tube enclosure rated to 1,000 m. Use with matching end-caps featuring penetrator ports for thruster cable integration in higher-pressure environments.
SHIPPING LIST
Technical Specifications
| Item | Blu-Thrust Z60 Thruster (Z60 Standard & Z60E Built-In ESC Versions) |
| Material & Appearance |
Standard: PC Black + Blue Built-In ESC: PC Grey Propellers: PC + Glass Fiber Weed Guard: PC Insert Nuts: 316 Stainless Steel |
| Weight |
Thruster: 245 g Propeller Set: 16 g Weed Guard (Front & Rear Set): 18 g |
| Maximum Rated Depth | 300 m / 984 ft |
| Rated Mechanical Durability | >200 hours |
| Maximum Power |
Without Weed Guard: 290 W With Weed Guard: 340 W |
| 6S Full Throttle Current (No Weed Guard) |
Forward: 11.5 A Reverse: 11.1 A |
| 6S Full Throttle Current (With Weed Guard) |
Forward: 11.1 A Reverse: 13.5 A |
| 6S Full Throttle Thrust (No Weed Guard) |
Forward: 4 kgf Reverse: 3.7 kgf |
| 6S Full Throttle Thrust (With Weed Guard) |
Forward: 3.2 kgf Reverse: 3.7 kgf |
| Power Supply Voltage Range | 10 – 25.2 VDC |
| Rated Temperature |
Air: –25 °C to 60 °C Water: –10 °C to 40 °C |
| Mounting Details |
Insert Nut Material: 316 Stainless Steel Mounting Hole Thread: 4 × M3 + 1 × M5 Mounting Hole Spacing: 15 × 25 mm |
| Cable |
Length: ≈ 900 mm Spec: 3 × 20 AWG Standard Version (Z60): Three motor phase wires (red / yellow / black) for external ESC Built-In ESC Version (Z60E): Different internal wiring configuration — use housing color to identify the correct version to avoid incorrect connection |
| Sealing Method | Resin full-encapsulated isolation |
| Motor |
Type: Outrunner Brushless Motor KV Value (approx.): 500 Built-In ESC Version (Z60E): Built-in Trapezoidal ESC |
* Parameters such as mechanical life and thrust are influenced by operating environment, duty cycle, and usage conditions, and may vary in real-world applications.
Full throttle thrust parameters at different voltages:
| Voltage (V) | Forward Thrust (kgf) | FWD Thrust Current (A) | Reverse Thrust (kgf) | REV Thrust Current (A) |
| 26 | 4.2 | 12.3 | 4.0 | 11.8 |
| 24 | 3.7 | 11.2 | 3.5 | 10.4 |
| 22 | 3.1 | 9.4 | 3.2 | 9.2 |
| 20 | 2.6 | 8.2 | 2.7 | 7.9 |
| 18 | 2.2 | 6.9 | 2.3 | 6.9 |
| 16 | 1.8 | 5.7 | 1.9 | 5.8 |
| 14 | 1.5 | 4.7 | 1.5 | 4.8 |
| 12 | 1.0 | 3.7 | 1.0 | 3.7 |
| 10 | 0.8 | 2.8 | 0.8 | 2.9 |
Technical Specifications Continued
Data Curve:
* Thrust parameters are measured test data obtained from a dedicated underwater thruster test bench. Variations may occur across different test environments due to multiple factors. When used with the weed guard, thrust output and current draw may vary slightly depending on operating direction and test conditions.
Performance Consistency:
The Blu-Thrust Z60 (no built-in ESC) and Blu-Thrust Z60E (built-in trapezoidal ESC) share identical external dimensions and core performance parameters. Differences relate only to wiring architecture and housing color identification. For the standard (non-ESC) version, measured current draw and response characteristics depend on the selected external ESC and tuning parameters.
Operational Lifecycle Considerations:
Laboratory freshwater testing demonstrates >200 hours of continuous operation under controlled indoor conditions. Actual service life varies depending on duty cycle, load conditions, water quality, operating depth, and maintenance practices. Routine inspection, cleaning, and operation within specified limits are recommended to support consistent performance over time.
24V Thrust Curve:
24V Power Curve:
Wiring Definition (Blu-Thrust Z60 — Non-ESC Models):
Rotation Direction, Thrust Direction, and Forward/Reverse Propeller Direction Description:
Cable Length Reference:
The included thruster cable is approximately 900 mm in length. Ensure sufficient internal clearance and strain relief when routing through a compatible gland cable penetrator to maintain watertight enclosure integrity.
What is the difference between the standard and built-in ESC versions?
Both versions share identical external dimensions and performance parameters. The standard model (Blu-Thrust Z60) requires connection to an external ESC via its three motor phase wires (red, yellow, black). The built-in ESC version (Blu-Thrust Z60E) integrates a specially tuned trapezoidal ESC inside the housing, reducing internal equipment bay space requirements while supporting effective drive heat dissipation. The Z60E uses a grey housing for version identification and wiring distinction.
Is the thruster repairable if damaged or miswired?
No. The motor utilizes fully resin-encapsulated isolation sealing and is not intended to be user-serviceable. Severe electrical or mechanical damage typically requires replacement.
Why are there CW/CCW propellers?
The CW (clockwise) and CCW (counterclockwise) propellers are mirror-image designs used to help balance reactive torque generated during motor rotation. In multi-thruster systems, using matched CW and CCW propellers can help reduce unwanted rotational forces on the vehicle.
What does the “VENT” mark on the propeller blade mean?
“VENT” indicates the water inlet and outlet openings used for cooling the motor stator. For the Z60 series propellers, only two screws are required for installation. The remaining two VENT openings must be left unobstructed to allow proper water circulation and cooling.
Can the front cap be removed?
No. The front assembly is non-removable. The thrust duct assembly can be disassembled to allow propeller replacement and cleaning of foreign objects.
Will foreign object insertion or forced blockage cause permanent damage?
Yes. Severe blockage may permanently damage the motor or ESC through burnout.
Is it suitable for sandy underwater environments?
The thruster offers some sand resistance, but fine abrasive particles may still cause wear. After operating in sandy conditions, rinse the rotating components with fresh water to help reduce abrasive friction and long-term wear.
Can it be used in both saltwater and freshwater?
Yes. After use in saltwater, it should be promptly rinsed with fresh water to help reduce corrosion risk.
What is the expected service life?
Laboratory freshwater testing demonstrates 200+ hours of continuous operation. Actual service life varies depending on operating environment and usage conditions.
Can it operate in air?
Yes. There is no limit to the continuous rotation time in air.
3D Model Viewer
Note: The 3D model shown above is for reference purposes only. It may include components, accessories, or alternate sizes not included with the product. For simplicity, only a single representative size is typically displayed when multiple versions exist. Please refer to the product Shipping Guide for detailed information on included contents and size-specific differences.
