China’s first emergency response and rescue vessel with hybrid-electric propulsion has been completed with advanced automation and remote monitoring systems
Shenzhen Maritime Safety Administration (MSA) is adding this 78-m vessel, built by Huangpu Wenchong Shipbuilding, to enhance its response to maritime emergencies. Shenhai 01 will carry out rescue operations and tow distressed ships to safety.
It has electric propulsion, automation and energy storage systems integrated by ABB, allowing it to be fully powered by batteries for up to three hours of operations.
This is particularly important for safe rescue operations in areas affected by hazardous gas, such as attending a distressed LNG-fuelled ship, chemical or LPG tanker.
Shenhai 01 features a full scope of ABB’s electric, digital and connected solutions, from bridge to propeller, with Azipod electric propulsion, batteries, automation, power management and control systems.
“As the first China-designed and built emergency rescue vessel, Shenhai 01 is ranked among the top technologically advanced ships around the world,” said Shenzhen MSA deputy director general Xiubin Guo.
Shenhai 01’s power is controlled by ABB’s integrated power and energy management system (PEMS) to optimise onboard energy utilisation. PEMS controls three sets of diesel generators and two sets of lithium batteries with total capacity of 1,680 kWh.
It increases vessel power plant performance and diesel engine efficiency. PEMS also supports zero-emissions operations in Shenhai 01’s fully electric mode.
Shenhai 01 is powered by twin Azipod electric propulsion units with a combined power of 6 MW. These can rotate 360°, providing the vessel with increased manoeuvrability and operating efficiency and are remotely controlled from the vessel bridge.
ABB said Azipods can reduce fuel consumption by up to 20% compared to traditional shaftline propulsion systems.
ABB’s network of Ability collaborative operations centres will remotely monitor ABB systems on board Shenhai 01.
Technical experts in these centres can use advanced data analytics to provide remote support and diagnostics to enhance the vessel’s operational safety and performance.
ABB said this is particularly important for vessels carrying out rescue operations in remote areas.
Alternative propulsion systems will be discussed in depth during Riviera Maritime Media’s Marine Propulsion Webinar Week, from 30 September. Use this link for more details and to register for these webinars
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