Propulsion selected for Indian battery-electric tugs

Berg Propulsion is providing the propulsion technology and systems integration for these two hybrid-electric tugs. 

The Swedish manufacturer said it was playing “pivotal project role” by supplying electric motors and contra-rotating, L-type thrusters and an electrical-system integration package for each vessel.

Berg Propulsion had to design a compact powertrain for these electric tugs as the energy storage system limits space for other equipment on board a vessel crewed by 12 personnel.

“Working closely with Navnautik, KMEW and the client, we successfully reduced the dimensions of the switchboard room by approximately 40% by positioning most of the propulsive equipment in the aft section of each tug,” said Berg Propulsion account manager for new sales Amrita Singh.

Navnautik naval architect, Aniruddha Sen, agreed having a compact electric powertrain helped in generating the design and general arrangement for these tugs.

“Factoring in electric powertrains can be challenging for any naval architect or designer, given that shipboard space is at a premium,” said Mr Sen.

“This is especially the case aboard a tug. The compact nature of Berg Propulsion’s integrated packages gave us a lot of flexibility to incorporate them into the general arrangement.”

Berg has appointed Prasenjit Roy as its Kolkata, India-based business developer to handle this project and oversee commissioning and installation at the shipyard.