Danfoss and SOIC team up on new power grid

Officially inaugurated on 13 May, the GEADC will showcase a new marine DC power grid jointly developed by the two companies. The new integrated solution includes a Danfoss Editron marine system and active front end technology that can connect to the grid network via a two-way power transmission device.

The grid will be compatible with vessels using both onshore and onboard power connection. “The facility has two dual-direction DC/AC inverters which can transform AC shore power to DC grid on-board. It can also simulate DC grid energy, such as battery, which transforms into AC hotel load consumption on vessels. This is performed in a way that a complete electric ship operation environment can be realised in a test bench,” a spokesperson for Danfoss told The Motorship.

Other components of the grid include asynchronous reluctance assisted permanent magnet motor test system, a high-efficiency DC/DC converter, a dynamometer and a switchboard. Energy management software based on programmable logic controllers will centrally control the system to ensure a reliable and smooth operation of the DC grid under different loading conditions.

Global solution

The solution will be offered globally. Initially the focus will be on the Asia-Pacific region, as electric and hybrid solutions for the marine sector are less developed in this area than in other parts of the world where Danfoss Editron operates, such as Europe and North America. “However, if other regions are interested in the joint Danfoss Editron and SOIC offering, then the team will be happy to help and supply them with it,” said Danfoss.

It is hoped that the GEADC will provide a platform for shipbuilders to better understand Danfoss Editron’s products and applications and help marine professionals complete factory acceptance tests and obtain marine certifications.

“The GEADC will serve as an open learning training facility, offering practical, step-by-step guidance to marine engineers so they can receive the best possible learning experience,” said Dr Shean-Kwang Chou, chief executive at SOIC. “The centre will also help reduce early-stage technical uncertainty, providing risk-free and time and costs saving to ship owners and ship builders,” he added.