Wartsila to power first dual-fuel newbuilds in UK

(HELSINKI) — The first domestic dual-fueled newbuild vessels in the United Kingdom will feature fully integrated Wartsila propulsion machinery packages. Wartsila will also supply extended engineering and site support services. The two ships, both 335-foot ro-ro passenger ferries, are being built for Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL) based in Port Glasgow, Scotland. The contracts with Wartsila were recorded in December.

Besides being the first dual-fuel vessels for CMAL, they are also the first dual-fuel ships to be built in the U.K. These will be built by Ferguson Marine Engineering Ltd. The yard is located on the River Clyde in Glasgow.

“This project highlights the fact that high-end, technologically advanced commercial shipbuilding is again present in Scotland. We value Wartsila’s contribution as an important partner, not only in providing us with the latest dual-fuel technologies, but also through its comprehensive range of project support competences. The project is at the forefront of marine engineering within the global ferry sector,” said Liam Campbell, managing director, Ferguson Marine Engineering Ltd.

“Wartsila is proud to have been selected as the major machinery provider for these new ferries, which represent a significant milestone for the British maritime sector. These Wartsila solutions promote environmental sustainability through the use of the latest marine propulsion technology. By integrating the various systems we are able to optimise the operational efficiencies, thereby reducing fuel consumption and minimizing the vessels’ environmental footprint,” said Aaron Bresnahan, vice president, dales, Wartsila Marine Solutions.

In addition to site support services, Wartsila will supply each of the two ships with two six-cylinder Wartsila 34DF main engines capable of operating on either liquefied natural gas (LNG) or conventional diesel fuels, two six-cylinder Wartsila 20DF auxiliary engines, horizontally offset gearboxes, shaft lines, seals and bearings, controllable pitch propeller systems (CPP) including the Wartsila Energopac optimized propulsion and maneuvering system, tunnel thrusters, the Wartsila LNGPac storage and supply system, plus extended commissioning and engineering. The ships will feature a twin screw dual-fuel mechanical propulsion driveline.

The ferries are scheduled to enter service during the second half of 2018. They will operate on various routes along the west coast of Scotland.

For more information about Wartsila, visit www.wartsila.com.

By Professional Mariner Staff