United Wind Logistics uses ABB software to boost module carrier safety and efficiency

Module deck carrier VestVind will be able to increase its operational window with ABB software [Image: ABB]

Germany’s United Wind Logistics is to use the ABB Ability marine advisory system OCTOPUS to support its module deck carrier VestVind as it transports large wind farm components such as turbines, foundations and blades to offshore installation sites.

By supporing real-time decision making to minimize unwanted vessel motions and accelerations, the OCTOPUS software will help protect high-value payloads in transit.

Additionally, it will boost vessel efficiency by optimizing the route. accounting for on-vessel motions resulting from weather and wave conditions. This will allow the module deck carrier to increase its operational window, during which it will be able to perform tasks safely and efficiently even during weather-sensitive operations.

Installation of the ABB solution on board the 130-meter, 10,238 dwt VestVind follows successful application on board United Wind’s module deck carriers BoldWind and BraveWind, both delivered this year.

“ABB is proud that customers in the offshore wind farm vessel segment are showing as much trust in OCTOPUS software as it has in other parts of the heavy lift vessel market,” said Antto Shemeikka, Vice President Digital Services, ABB Marine & Ports. “The growing demand for offshore wind power calls for larger wind turbines, and the installation of these, in turn, requires larger, more sophisticated vessels. Insights into the motions of these vessels becomes more significant from the safety point of view and of greater value to charterers needing to evaluate movements of special loads.”

“The benefits of ABB’s marine advisory system continue to prove compelling,” said Christoph Puschmann, Managing Director, United Wind Logistics. “As demand for larger wind farm components grows and we are tasked with transporting heavier and ever-more expensive cargoes, the importance of motion monitoring and forecasting only increases. We look forward to reaping the same safety and efficiency benefits onboard VestVind as we have secured for our newbuildings BoldWind and BraveWind.”

ABB’s scope of supply to United Wind Logistics also includes implementation of the ABB Ability Marine Fleet Portal, making the benefits of OCTOPUS on board available to stakeholders ashore.

The Fleet Portal allows vessel and cargo owners to view the status and location of assets online and gives access to reports sent from ship to server to ensure peace of mind during high-stakes operations.