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Höegh Autoliners invests in simulators to train crew to use new fuels
The Norwegian shipowner will train seafarers to maintain and navigate a new generation of vehicle carriers ready to run on LNG and ammonia
Höegh Autoliners is investing in new engineroom and bridge simulator models in the Philippines to train crews to maintain propulsion systems and navigate ships using alternative fuels.
Its new Aurora class of pure car and truck carrier (PCTC) ships will run on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and ammonia fuels once they are delivered and these fuels are available.
The training will be carried out at the Norwegian Training Centre (NTC) in Manila, the Philippines, on specially designed and constructed simulators.
“By investing in advanced training solutions, we are not only enhancing our crew’s competencies but also reinforcing our commitment to environmental stewardship,” said Höegh Autoliners chief executive Andreas Enger.
Kongsberg Digital won the contract to supply K-Sim Navigation and K-Sim Engine simulators, customised to replicate Höegh’s Aurora class of ships. An engine simulator model will be used to train crew to use future sustainable and hybrid fuel types and a high-fidelity navigation simulator is loaded with realistic training scenarios involving the Aurora integrated bridge set up.
Höegh said its new vessels will be the largest and most environmentally friendly ever built, featuring dual-fuel engines with a hybrid fuel system for LNG and marine gasoil, which is also ready for processing ammonia fuels.
The K-Sim Engine simulator will model this hybrid fuel technology and will be updated for training on ammonia propulsion systems before the Aurora PCTCs use this fuel.
Kongsberg said the K-Sim Engine offers comprehensive training on the operational intricacies and optimisation of hybrid engines, essential for reducing a vessel’s carbon footprint and adhering to environmental regulations.
The K-Sim Navigation simulator will enable crew members to gain hands-on experience navigating these Aurora-class vessels and become familiar with bridge systems equipped by Kongsberg Maritime, including ECDIS, radar, propulsion controls and other navigational devices.
The NTC, established by the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association in 1990, will soon receive the Aurora-class simulation model to train Høegh’s officers and marine engineers.
“We have a long-standing relationship with Höegh Autoliners,” said NTC Manila general manager Jo Even Tomren. “NTC utilises a range of advanced Kongsberg simulators to provide high-quality training. We are dedicated to continuing our support for Höegh by providing training for Aurora vessels’ crew.”
Kongsberg Digital managing director of maritime simulation Are Føllesdal Tjønn said the company would “support Höegh with simulation technology promoting the skills and knowledge needed to operate the Aurora-class vessels efficiently and sustainably, supporting Höegh’s ambitious net-zero goal.”
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