GE motors for more LNG carriers

The owner, the gas shipping unit of the Angelicoussis Shipping Group, signed the contracts for the propulsion systems in late May; HHI is scheduled to deliver the vessels between July 2015 and October 2016. GE will supply two propulsion systems for each ship, comprising generators, main and cargo switchboards, transformers, MV7000 converters, motors and remote control.

Just before agreeing this contract, Maran Gas completed sea trials of the Woodside Rogers, first of a 15-strong class of HHI-built LNG tankers, all incorporating GE technology. Maran Gas technical director Andreas Spertos said: “After looking at the growth potential of the LNG market, Maran Gas took the strategic decision early in 2011 to expand its presence in LNG shipping and add to its then existing fleet of five LNG carriers. The Woodside Rogers is our first tri-fuel carrier, and we are pleased with the way the ship performed during sea trials. We believe we have made the right decision to apply fuel-efficient tri-fuel diesel-electric technology to our new generation of vessels.”

HHI is said to be a strong proponent of GE’s power and propulsion technology, being the first shipbuilder in Korea to adopt it. GE claims a strong position in LNG carrier propulsion, with more tankers being ordered as natural gas, with its low emissions and rules compliance, becomes one of the major fuel sources.

GE’s induction motors use PWM variable-speed drive technology, which is claimed to be reliable and cost-effective, with low maintenance costs, long service life and environmental benefits. The system is powered by tri-fuel gensets running on natural gas, MGO or HFO.