Siemens picked as propulsion and control SSV for second RCRV

Second RCRV is scheduled for completion in late 2021

NOVEMBER 26, 2018 — Gulf Island Shipyards, Houma, LA, has selected as the propulsion and control single source vendor (SSV) for the construction of a second National Science Foundation (NSF) Regional Class Research Vessel (RCRV) that will be operated by the University of Rhode Island’s Graduate School of Oceanography (URI-GSO).

The as yet unnamed RCRV will be the second of three regional class research vessels of its class and is scheduled for completion in late 2021

The new vessel will feature Siemens Blue Drive PLUSC Diesel Electric Propulsion (DEP) system capable of varying engine speed with load to optimize operations and reduce noise and vibration on the water during research activities.

As the propulsion and control SSV, Siemens is providing an integrated power and energy system (IPES) scope that includes the propulsion thrusters, engines and Dynamic Positioning System (DPS), as well as Siemens motors, remote diagnostic system, diesel generator sets, switchboards and power distribution, alarm and monitoring system, on-board sensors and condition-based monitoring. In addition, Siemens will provide the project management, engineering studies, propulsion system integration and engineering services to support commissioning up to sea trials and delivery.

The new ship will be 199 feet long and 41 feet wide and will feature science labs, workspace, state-of-the-art technologies, and comfortable berthing. The ship will be able to cruise at 11.5 knots for up to 21 days.

“Our continued success in developing solutions for the marine research community demonstrates the innovation and proven technology behind the Siemens portfolio,” says David Grucza, Director of Siemens Drilling and Marine, U.S. “This, combined with industry trends that include changing regulations, meeting stringent emissions requirements and the need to reduce fuel consumption, maintenance and operational costs, makes Siemens the SSV of choice for shipbuilders, naval architects and owner/operators.”