GE Marine upgrades DP training facility

In early 2015, the NI implemented new standards for DP training to ensure it continues to meet current industry needs. Although the new rules have driven training schools to execute against class C and class B standards, the GE says its upgraded facility meets class A standards by providing a far more realistic training environment – the state-of-the-art visualisation system re-creates vividly the view out of the ship navigation bridge.

“First opened in 2005, GE has proved its extensive expertise in DP technology and training capability. We are dedicated to helping customers obtain necessary maritime qualifications and GE‘s training school ensures that marine operators carry out operations allowing vessels to perform efficiently and safely,” said Tim Schweikert, vice president, GE Marine.

“With complete equipment modernisation and a team of highly experienced engineers on board, the Houston facility demonstrates a step forward in technology advancement and GE Marine’s firm commitment to a more energy efficient marine industry,” he added.

The DP training room is equipped with full manoeuvring control and navigation systems. It is designed to operate with two generations of GE’s DP systems, where the instructors can quickly change out between C-Series DP and GE’s latest SeaStream DP system, therefore providing flexibility for operators.

The DP system is at the core of the vessel operations. GE’s SeaStream DP system delivers flexibility for effective maritime operations and an energy-efficient nautical system to reduce operational costs and emissions. Operating in Energy Efficient mode when tight vessel control is not essential, the system is expected to reduce fuel consumption by 10% or more, NOx emissions by up to 20% and also reduce equipment wear and maintenance costs when comparing to standard mode.

“Our new facility is designed to help mariners obtain the necessary NI qualifications to allow them to operate DP vessels, but we intend to train beyond the level of basic requirements, utilising the simulator to train in realistic scenarios which will prepare DPOs for anything they may encounter,” said Mr Schweikert.

In addition to DP qualifications, GE’s training centre also provides trainings courses to marine engineering and bridge officers on a wide range of GE Marine systems.

Going forward, GE Marine says it’s also developing the Houston Technical Training Centre into a Center of Excellence for customer support, bringing in senior field engineer expertise to provide remote monitoring and diagnostic support for customers.