ABB power for Roboship biomass carrier

The shipping consortium e5 Lab Inc, which is behind the new Roboship biomass fuel carrier, chose ABB’s DC distribution solution to equip the vessel.

“The collaboration with ABB has been beyond our expectations in delivering world-leading technology and efficiency, the ultimate in safety and reliability, specific size and weight reductions, that is unique to coastal vessels.” said Yasumasa Suetsugu, chief technology officer, e5 Lab.

“Our goal is to make a significant contribution to resolving the environmental challenges and reducing crew workload which face coastal shipping in Japan.”

Power integrator 

The Roboship vessel will be powered by a fully standardised, electric propulsion system to attain zero emission operations at harbour.

Built by Honda Heavy Industries Co Ltd, the 70m length, 499-gross tonne carrier will be equipped with ABB’s complete modularised electrical propulsion package, enabling it to utilise multiple energy sources for optimised operational efficiency and emissions-free operations.

Additional benefits of the system include reduced noise and vibration, lower maintenance costs and improved steering capabilities that will make pier docking and undocking operations easier.

ABB’s Onboard DC Grid power distribution system is modular and can be built to suit various vessel types – from the largest ocean-going ships to smaller lower-power vessels operating over shorter distances and on inland waterways.

The solution helps future-proof ships to draw on clean energy sources for zero-emissions operations without compromising speed or sailing range.

Onboard DC Grid also reduces the footprint of the electrical equipment by eliminating the need for bulky transformers and main switchboards. This creates more space for cargo, provides greater flexibility in the positioning of system components on board the vessel and increases payload capacity.

ABB’s full scope of supply includes a standard sytem package comprising the hardware for electric propulsion, including propulsion motors, DSC switchboards, energy storage batteries and generators and ABB Ability Marine Remote Diagnostic System for continuous monitoring and remote support.

The Japanese Shipowners’ Association’s e5 Lab Inc intiative is a consortium comprising Asahi Tanker Co. Ltd, Exeno Yamamizu Corporation, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Ltd and Mitsubishi Corporation, developed with the purpose of developing renewably powered commercial ships.