Wärtsilä introduces HY hybrid product for dredges

Wärtsilä HY for Dredger is designed specifically to increase the efficiency and sustainability of dredging operations

Wärtsilä has launched a new product based on its HY hybrid propulsion technology aimed specifically at enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of dredging operations.

Wärtsilä HY for Dredger was presented at an event held at the company’s Hybrid Center in Trieste, Italy. The event was attended by some of the world’s leading dredging sector companies, who were given a real-life demonstration of the product.

The product features a combination of different power sources, including the engines and energy storage systems, the power distribution equipment, and the Energy Management System (EMS). The EMS ensures instant load taking and dynamic power demand. It also has the capability for intelligent tuning to optimisze performance throughout the vessel’s lifecycle.

Full integration of the various systems enables smooth and continuous operations in all operating conditions, allowing the engines to always run at optimal load. This increases energy efficiency, which leads in turn to substantial savings in fuel consumption. At the same time, reducing stress on mechanical components results in lower maintenance costs and extended turbocharger life.

Sustainability is enhanced with reduced emission levels in all modes, with zero emissions when running in full battery mode.

REAL OPERATIONAL DATA

“Real operational data from the field was analyzed so as to understand exactly the challenges to be overcome, and the product was engineered accordingly,” says Giulio Tirelli, Wärtsilä Marine’s Director of Sales & Business Intelligence. “Through working closely with our customers, we have been able to further develop the HY technology and customize a new integrated product for the dredging market.”

“With this we can have a lower environmental impact, better fuel efficiency, and reduced maintenance because of fewer running hours. This will deliver the most advanced energy solution currently available to the dredging industry, while maintaining a payback time as short as two years,” says Henrik Wilhelms, Director, Offshore & Special Vessels, Wärtsilä Marine. “This latest hybrid product development represents a further step in the realization of Wärtsilä ’s smart marine ecosystem vision, whereby the development of smart technologies will create greater efficiency, higher safety, and better environmental performance. The company is committed to improving the sustainability of maritime operations.”