HOS flagship MPSVs feature advanced GE solutions

MAY 4, 2016 — GE (NYSE: GE) solutions provided for two 302 ft diesel electric Z-drive MPSVs built by Eastern Shipbuilding for Hornbeck Offshore Services include the first MKII MV3000 Active Front End (AFE) drives.

Manufactured in Kidsgrove, U.K, the drives have one of the highest power densities of any drive ever produced by GE’s Marine Solutions, providing performance comparable to a much larger solution while occupying far less space onboard.

In addition to the drives, GE has also provided its latest generation SeaStream dynamic positioning (DP) system for the vessels. With the help of HOS’ input, the SeaStream DP system has a completely redesigned and improved user control interface.

GE says that the new interface puts the control of the ship back into the hands of the mariner with simpler, intuitive controls allowing critical information to be delivered in an easy to comprehend manner for the user, which results in more efficient DP operations.

“These are our flagship U.S. MPSVs, and we are delighted to have some of the newest and most-advanced technology from GE equipping them,” said William Krewsky, director of projects and engineering at Hornbeck Offshore. “The solution provided by GE has been met with initial appreciation by our fleet operators during the sea trials and delivery of the lead vessel.”

Tim Schweikert, president & CEO, GE’s Marine Solutions said, “At GE, customers define our success. We are delighted to provide the best of our solutions to enable Eastern Shipbuilding to build the next flagship vessels for HOS. Our longstanding relationship with them is a result of providing years of cutting-edge and reliable solutions, which have met their high standards.”

Commenting on the project, Ken Munroe, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Eastern Shipbuilding Group said, “GE has already provided equipment on more than 20 vessels built by us, which is a testimony of our trust in their solutions. Throughout our long-term relationship, we have been very happy with their high-performance solutions.”