Integrated bridge solution helps efficiency

The bridge concept integrates the various sub-systems such as propulsion plant, ship automation and navigation at the central control bridge. With the new solution, information previously scattered over diverse displays can be seen on a standardised display using a single graphic interface which gives users an immediate overview and allows them to identify issues quickly and analyse data.

Knut Müller, head of marine and governmental business at MTU, said: “With our new integrated bridge system we are going a step further by offering the customer a complete systems solution that facilitates better monitoring of the vessel as a whole.

“By being able to cover the whole spectrum from propulsion system and bridge components to digitalized service and long-term service agreements, we support the customer as a systems solutions provider all along the way.”

The captured data can also be stored and transferred for further analysis. It can be used to increase availability of a resource, reduce life-cycle costs and further enhance operational reliability.

Hybrid propulsion

From 2020, Rolls-Royce will launch a range of completely integrated MTU hybrid ship propulsion systems for ships with MTU Series 2000 and 4000 engines.

The systems, including MTU internal combustion engines, electric drive modules, transmission systems, batteries, monitoring and control systems, will be offered in a variety of power ranges and have been initially designed for yachts, work boats, ferries and patrol boats.

As of 2020, systems incorporating MTU Series 2000 engines combined with one or two electric motors per power train each with 150kW of electrical output, will be launched and will cover a power range of between approximately 1,000 and 2,200 per power train.

As of 2021, MTU will then extend its portfolio with the addition of hybrid systems based on the power delivered by MTU Series 4000 engines and as many as four electric motors, each with 150 kW of electrical output, and will cover a power range of between approximately 1,000 and 4,000 kilowatts per powertrain.

The MTU hybrid propulsion systems have so far been tested on a ferry and two yachts.