Louis Allis solves Sealion Shipping emergency

Removal and repair by the motor’s manufacturer, ABB could have taken up to five months, and a new motor delivery would have taken between 20-26 weeks with extra time for it to be tailored to Sealion’s needs. Once the company contacted Louis Allis, the motor was replaced within 10 days.

The motor repair company had a 3,500hp motor in its inventory that could be delivered within the 10 days it would take the vessel to return to port. Although the replacement was single-speed as opposed to the two-speed main propulsion motors, the new unit was adequate to restore DP and maneuvering capabilities.

Before it could be shipped, the motor required a number of modifications. The most difficult involved converting the standard NEMA (American) motor to fit the metric specifications and footprint of the ABB motor. Sealion Shipping did not have construction drawings of the motor on hand, so instead videotaped a series of measurements of the motor, as well as the mounting details.

Louis Allis then remanufactured the motor as a drop-in replacement – taking the motor completely apart, replacing bearings, varnish coating the windings, rebalancing, reassembling and conducting sophisticated testing. This included ensuring that it would physically fit through a hole cut into the deck of the ship.

Due to its responsiveness, Louis Allis was also asked to repair the failed ABB motor. Once the repairs were complete, the installation would occur during future scheduled maintenance or dry dock.

Based in Warrior, Alabama, Louis Allis manufactures motors up to 20,000hp as well as offering standard NEMA motors, in-stock recertified units, and motor repair services.