High-class design and engineering for a Canadian Polar Icebreaker

The Canadian Polar Icebreaker project originally began in 2012 by the Canadian Government as a replacement for the CCGS Louis S. St-Laurent – the former icebreaker which entered in service in 1969 – with the aim of constructing a larger and more powerful icebreaker. The Canadian government were looking for a new modern and effective design that could adapt to future requirements, fulfil its intricate mission profile, and enable extended operations at higher latitudes and in demanding Arctic conditions.

However, the project was put on hold for nearly a decade before being revived in early 2021. It was at this point that Elomatic was brought in to contribute to the project’s development.

The journey so far

The preliminary design phase marked the inception of collaborative efforts involving Elomatic, Aker Arctic, and Seaspan Vancouver Shipyards (VSY), to review and enhance the vessel concept, explore potential design improvements, and ensure the integration of cutting-edge technology.

Following the successful completion of the initial design phase, Elomatic has maintained a close partnership with VSY in subsequent engineering stages, particularly in the ongoing Functional Design phase, slated for completion by mid-2024.

Looking ahead, the Production Design phase is scheduled to start early this year, followed by the Construction Phase starting around 2025. The comprehensive build process will persist until 2030, culminating in the delivery of the vessel to the Canadian Coast Guard.

Major changes and key challenges

Adjustments were implemented to the propulsion and helideck of the icebreaker to meet current requirements. The steel hull of the new Canadian Polar Icebreaker was optimised using nonlinear analysis tools, resulting in a lighter ship with advantages such as reduced steel weight, lower construction costs, and an efficient steel structure. Additionally, three different propulsion options were assessed, and extensive model tests in both, ice and open water, were conducted to confirm the vessel’s performance and manoeuvrability. Based on the results a hybrid propulsion system with two azimuth thrusters and one center line shaft was proposed to the CCG and finally selected as the new propulsion configuration.

Considering the harsh Arctic ice conditions, the project team had to consider multiple challenges; such as the need to deal with extreme and unpredictable ice conditions in the Arctic and function effectively in the very cold and long-lasting winters, being versatile to undertake various missions and conduct environmental research requiring a fuel capacity for extended periods in the remote Arctic and adaptability to ensure compliance in the face of uncertain future regulations.

A milestone for Elomatic’s expansion in Canada

The successful completion of the basic design phase and the continued co-operation in the Functional Design phase of the icebreaker led to a new Production Design contract between Elomatic and VSY to ensure a long-term collaboration. At this stage, Elomatic will be engineering the design to meet production requirements to build the vessel and will continue supporting the shipyard in improving its shipbuilding processes. Elomatic takes pride in being part of such an important and complex project.

The Polar program falls under the defense sector, entailing 100% Canadian Industrial and Regional Benefits (IRB) obligations. Elomatic is committed to comply with the IRB requirements, envisioning opportunities to expand operations in Canada, reinvest, and create sustainable prospects, marking a significant milestone in Elomatic’s strategic development within the country.

Elomatic’s pivotal role

The project stands as a testament to innovation in Arctic ship design and underscores the importance of international collaboration across Canada, Finland, Germany, and Poland. The overarching goal is to make a positive impact in Canadian territory, enabling the Canadian Coast Guard to operate effectively in higher latitudes, providing enhanced support, advancing high Arctic science, and ensuring a rapid response to maritime emergencies.

Regardless the type of vessel, Elomatic’s help evaluate safety, usability and energy efficiency and to design the best possible concepts. Finding the right solution for each individual ship, requires looking out for the best options, analyse possible solutions and select the most suitable one for a customer’s fleet today as well as future proofing for tomorrow. This requires assessments of the current state of technology on board individual ships, the requirements for the future and the overall condition of the ship and its systems.