Greener fishing due to renewal of propulsion system
Photo: Nordnesgruppen AS
Nordnesgruppen AS initiated the rebuilding of ‘Nordbas’, which aims to become the market's greenest trawler- and seiner vessel at Green Yard Kleven in Ulsteinvik, Norway. Finnøy Gear & Propeller AS was selected to equip the ship with ‘twin in single out’ gearbox type 2G60-80FP in combination with propeller type P95, Ø3.5 m and fifth generation remote control adapted to the vessel's operating profile.
“We consider it as a declaration of trust to have the opportunity to collaborate with Nordnesgruppen, Green Yard Kleven and Vegsund Slip in this unique green repower project. As a supplier, we are pleased that the shipowner made the choice to use local expertise that helps to preserve and further develop the maritime industrial cluster at Sunnmøre”, says Norunn Finnøy, Marketing Manager at Finnøy Gear & Propeller.
Based on a comprehensive analysis of the vessel's energy needs, twin input – single output reduction gearbox is applied, given the variation of power requirements and strict requirements for operational safety. The diesel engines have different power range (1326 kW and 2653 kW) and can be operated either separately or together. Excess power from the engines that are not used for propulsion, is transferred to the generator, which in turn charges the extensive battery bank onboard.
Permanent magnet shaft generators are connected to the gearbox PTO´s (power take-off), which allows variable speeds on the main engines. The generators also functions as a quiet e-motor powered by the battery bank for peak shaving or to run the vessel electric when the power demand from the propeller is low.
The 5th generation electronic remote-control system is designed for easy operation of the six different operation modes. Via pre-set modes like Idle/ start- up mode, Harbour mode, Danish sein/steaming mode, Light trawl mode, Heavy trawl mode and Electric mode, decisions about whether to use the engine or generator or both are made upon. In electrical mode, the generator operates as an e-motor.
The installation of the ‘twin in-single out’ gearbox in combination of battery technology for energyoptimization can be described as a reference point for the entire sector. Finnøy Gear & Propeller's firsthand expertise unites a flexible and reliable mechanical solution with green technology in the form of reduced fuel consumption. This, in conjunction with the shipowners further recycle choices and utilization of residual raw material, will result in both environmental and operational benefits. The ship is scheduled to be completed in Q1 2021.