Siemens support for dive vessel

The Integrated Drive System (IDS) used in the vessel, with a length of approximately 146m, conforms with the international certification standards of DNV GL and comprises six Simotics motors and six BlueDrive frequency converters with an output of up to 3MW (MW) each designed specifically to cope with hostile application conditions in terms of temperature, vibration and also moisture.

Siemens says the solution is designed to improve the vessel’s reliability and manoeuvrability, as well as reduce fuel consumption, therefore lowering overall operating costs.

The power supply to the ship is guaranteed using the integrated Siship Power MV power supply system comprising six 2.7 MW generators. Two 6.6 kilovolt (kV) NxAIR switchgear units take care of efficient power distribution, while the overall power and drive system is controlled and monitored by Siship cross-component control and safety systems such as Drive Control System (DCS), Power Management System (PMS), Power Plant Protection (PPP) and Generator Power Adaption System (GPA).

Two of the six BlueDrive converters are fitted with the innovative dual in-feed function, which enables in-feed from two independently operating switch panels simultaneously. The dual in-feed functionality also ensures that a power failure in main power supplies is detected within just milliseconds; the affected side of the dual in-feed is separated without the need for any thruster change-over processes, avoiding a wholesale failure, fault spreading or loss of maximum drive output. The dual in-feed function can also be used in the Dynamic Position (DP) operating mode, regardless of whether the main power network is operated with a closed or open main bus-tie.

This multi-purpose Saturated Diving Support/Offshore Construction Vessel (DSV/OCV) will be used for offshore applications primarily in the oil and gas industry and for deep sea projects. Toisa’s vessel will be managed by Sealion Shipping Ltd., a global shipping and support services company located in Farnham, United Kingdom.

To ensure it meets market demands, the diving support vessel will be built in line with the new dual notation standard DYNPOS AUTRO (DP3) and DYNPOS ER (Enhanced Reliability) issued by DNV GL.