MAN gen-sets help propel cable-laying vessel

Graphical rendering of the newbuild cable-laying vessel. (Source: VARD).

VARD, a global designer and shipbuilder of specialized vessels, has ordered 4 × MAN 12V175D-MEM gen-sets in connection with the building of a new purpose-built, cable-laying vessel (CLV) for NCT Offshore, the Danish subsea specialist. The gen-sets will form part of the vessel’s diesel-electric DP2 propulsion system, which also includes a hybrid battery package.

The CLV will feature DP2 positioning and seakeeping systems and will come equipped with an intelligent power system solution encompassing batteries, switchboards and shore connection to reduce fuel consumption and increase operability. The vessel will feature a bollard pull in excess of 60 tons, with maximum transit speed exceeding 14 knots.

The 4 × MAN 12V175D-MEM gen-sets will form part of the CLV’s diesel-electric DP2 propulsion system. (Photo: MAN Energy Solutions)

The high-speed 175D gen-sets forming part of the DP2 propulsion system each utilize an eco-friendly MAN 175D engine. Available in 12-, 16- and 20-cylinder variants, engine outputs range from 1,500 to 4,400 kW. The engine complies with the latest exhaust gas emissions standards, is approved for use with biofuels such as FAME and HVO and is optimized for propelling ferries, offshore support ships, tugs and other working vessels. The 175D gen-sets for the CLV will each come with compact MAN SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) systems.

According to Florian Keiler, head of High Speed, MAN Energy Solutions SE, the project is just the latest within the rapidly-growing offshore-windfarm market, in which the 175D  is already strongly represented.

“In such a green environment-driven sector, the 175D’s inherent fuel efficiency and low emissions make it an ideal propulsion solution, either as a standalone or – as in this case – as part of a hybrid package,” he said. “It is also the engine with the lowest total cost of ownership in the market with a small environmental footprint.”