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(COPENHAGEN) — Three leading companies have teamed up to bring the first ever reverse stern drive (RSD) compressed natural gas (CNG) tug to the market. Damen Shipyards of the Netherlands, German engine manufacturer MTU Friedrichshafen, a subsidiary of Rolls-Royce Power Systems, and Denmark’s SVITZER have embarked on the pioneering project with the official launch of the new eco-friendly tug planned for 2016. The new RSD CNG tug combines high power with lower fuel costs and a substantial reduction in emissions.
Martijn Smit, Damen sales manager Europe, says, “Damen is proud to be building the prototype. With the MTU 4000 engine, this vessel is excellent for ship handling, with very quick acceleration. Manoeuvrability is combined with the vessel being green, clean and efficient.”
The new 16-cylinder pure gas engine being developed by MTU is based on its proven workboat Series 4000 M63 diesel engine. It will be complemented with a multipoint gas injection system, a dynamic engine control and an optimised safety concept. “We are developing our new gas Series in order to meet the extreme load profile of the tugboat. The acceleration will be comparable to the level of our diesel engines. Due to the clean combustion concept, compliance with IMO Tier 3 emission legislation will be ensured without the need of additional exhaust gas after treatment. The 2,000 kW MTU gas engine is characterised by high power density combined with low fuel consumption,” says Dr. Ulrich Dohle, CEO of Rolls-Royce Power Systems AG.
Commenting on the reasons why SVITZER has decided to invest in such a unique vessel, CTO Kristian Brauner says: “As a major harbour towage operator an important consideration is also that this tug will realise a considerable reduction in fuel costs and obviously fuel is a major cost concern for all operators. And crucially, as a market leader it is important for us to stay innovative with regards to performing safe and eco-friendly operations and to reduce emissions. Through the years we have already developed one version of the ECOtug and with this in mind, the choice to develop the new CNG tug is a natural step towards remaining an eco-conscious towage company.”
The new Damen reverse stern drive (RSD) is essentially an ASD and tractor tug in one – being able to sail ahead and astern, with the same bow height forward and aft. Currently, the series comprises the RSD 2210, which will have a 50 t BP, RSD 2512 (70t BP) and RSD 2914 (90t BP).
About MTU
MTU is a brand of Rolls-Royce Power Systems AG. MTU high-speed engines and propulsion systems provide power for marine, rail, power generation, oil and gas, agriculture, mining, construction and industrial, and defense applications. The portfolio is comprised of diesel engines with up to 10,000 kilowatts (kW) power output, gas engines up to 2,530 kW and gas turbines up to 35,320 kW. MTU also offers customized electronic monitoring and control systems for its engines and propulsion systems.
About Svitzer
Since 1833, Svitzer has provided safety and support at sea. With 4,000 employees, a fleet of more than 400 vessels and operations all over the world, we are the global market leader within towage and emergency response.
Damen Shipyards Group
Damen Shipyards Group operates 32 ship- and repair yards, employing 8,000 people worldwide. Damen has delivered more than 5,000 vessels in more than 100 countries and delivers approximately 180 vessels annually to customers worldwide. Based on its unique, standardised ship design concept Damen is able to guarantee consistent quality.
Damen’s focus on standardisation, modular construction and keeping vessels in stock leads to short delivery times, low ‘total cost of ownership’, high resale value and reliable performance. Furthermore, Damen vessels are based on thorough R&D and proven technology.
Damen offers a wide range of products, including: tugs, workboats, naval and patrol vessels, high-speed craft, cargo vessels, dredgers, vessels for the offshore industry, ferries, pontoons and super yachts.
For nearly all vessel types Damen offers a broad range of services, such as maintenance, spare parts delivery, training and transfer of (shipbuilding) know-how. Finally, Damen offers a variety of marine components, especially nozzles, (flap-type) rudders, steering gear, anchors, anchor chains and steel works.
Damen Shiprepair & Conversion
In addition to ship design and shipbuilding, Damen Shiprepair & Conversion offers a network of 16 repair and conversion yards worldwide, with dry docks ranging up to 420 x 80 metres. Conversion projects range from adapting vessels to meet today’s requirements and regulations to the complete conversion of large offshore structures. DS&C handles 1,500 repair and maintenance jobs annually.
For further information please contact
Jan-Hein Reeringh
Communications Advisor
+31 (0) 183 63 98 82
+31 (0) 612 20 77 96
