The following is the text of a news release from Caterpillar:
(NEW ORLEANS) — Caterpillar Marine has announced a contract to supply an integrated hybrid propulsion solution on two new vessels for Harbor Docking and Towing based in Houston, Texas. The vessels will be designed and built by Washburn & Doughty in East Boothbay, Maine.
This sales contract is a culmination of joint efforts between Milton Cat and Louisiana Cat who supports Harbor Docking and Towing's vessels operating in Lake Charles, La. Caterpillar will be providing a "stem-to-stern" Cat content hybrid propulsion system scope including 3512E main engines, C18 generator sets, a C7.1 generator set, shaft lines, MTA 628 azimuth drives, booster motors, VFD's, switchgear, and a fully integrated and simple to use control system.
Utilizing actual engine load history data from Harbor Docking and Towing's existing vessels, Louisiana Cat used the new Caterpillar Engine Value Analysis (EVA) tool to provide an accurate life cycle cost analysis. A Cat Select study (Caterpillar tool to compare propulsion system options) was presented to Harbor Docking and Towing revealing that a hybrid propulsion system facilitated improved vessel performance while using smaller main engines (3512E's instead of 3516E's) and slightly larger generator sets. The hybrid propulsion system yields substantial maintenance cost savings, reduced fuel consumption, reduced emissions, and a smaller DEF tank size. The EVA and Cat Select reports helped Harbor Docking and Towing make an educated buying decision.
Washburn & Doughty proved to be a great partner for this project due to their design capabilities and excellent Technical and Sales support from Milton Cat. "We are excited to further bolster our long-standing relationship with Washburn & Doughty, said Kevin Hampson, marine sales manager for Milton Cat. “We really appreciate the cooperation and support we have received from Louisiana CAT in helping this contract become a reality.”
Harbor Docking and Towing emphasized a high value on the integration synergies Washburn & Doughty offered by having full responsibility for both design and construction. Choosing Washburn & Doughty, combined with Caterpillar supplying the entire propulsion scope, provided Harbor Docking and Towing with a truly integrated solution.
