ABB wins polar newbuild total solution order

The units, developed by Masa-Yards and ABB, will enable Lindblad Expeditions Holdings’ cruise vessel to navigate through sea ice and meet regulations for operating in Arctic and Antarctic waters. They require 25% less installed power than propulsors of equivalent performance, according to ABB.

Juha Koskela, managing director at ABB Marine & Ports, said: “Electrical solutions are more reliable, efficient and environmentally responsible than their mechanical counterparts, as well as better aligned with digitalization. Similarly, Azipod propulsion achieves greater maneuverability and improves passenger and crew comfort on board, while its gearless construction reduces environmental risk.”

Intelligent technology

Ms Koskela also noted the increasing popularity of hybrid electric propulsion and integrated solutions with companies developing ice-class ships and the growth of automation.

ABB Ability System 800xA will be used to improve efficiency and safety of the polar newbuild. It integrates power, propulsion and vessel management systems into one platform.

Leveraging ABB Ability Collaborative Operations, the vessel will be connected to ABB’s Collaborative Operations Center infrastructure, which monitors the performance of ABB technology on board and remotely connects operators with ABB experts. This can be particularly crucial for vessels operating in remote areas.

The vessel is designed by Ulstein Design & Solutions and will be constructed by Norwegian yard Ulstein Verft. It will be delivered in the first quarter of 2020.