NES launches scalable DC grid system

The Odin’s Eye system builds on NES’ existing Quadro Drive frequency converter. By connecting the converter to a ‘ring net solution’, the company says that all essential equipment can now be handled as separate power islands – as opposed to the possibility of just two-split switchboards previously, resulting in oversized generators and propulsion motors.

The islands can be configured to work together with closed bus-ties, or independently with open bus-ties. The new system offers high levels of redundancy and very fast short circuit protection – making it well suited for naval applications – as well as allowing for batteries or shore connections to be easily added, the company noted.

Paul Winson, senior vice president sales, NES, said: “We have always believed in DC grid solutions. They work, they save fuel and have lower emissions. However, we did not like the technology currently being offered because it was very expensive and limited in what it could do. So we set about finding a solution which is less expensive and offers more capability, including improved safety.”