The offshore construction vessel “Normand Sentinel” from Solstad is to become more efficient and produce fewer emissions. To this end, it is being retrofitted with a new propulsion system from Kongsberg Maritime.
As part of a retrofit, the ship is to receive electric Rim-Drive Azimuth Thrusters from Kongsberg.[ds_preview] The upgrade of the “Normand Sentinel” with a length of 143 m is planned during the next dry docking. The vessel’s current AZP 120 CP mechanical thrusters will then be replaced by the RD-AZ2600 thrusters.
“This strategic step supports the ecological turnaround by significantly reducing fuel consumption. In addition, the technology improves the vessel’s operability and capacity while reducing maintenance requirements. This is in line with Solstad’s ongoing commitment to reducing emissions,” commented Tor Johan Tveit, Chief Operating Officer at Solstad, on the retrofit.
“Normand Sentinel” saves up to 40% energy
A detailed study of the ship’s operation by Kongsberg Maritime has shown that the ten-year-old “Normand Sentinel” can achieve significant energy savings by using the new azimuth thrusters. According to Kongsberg Maritime, up to 16% is saved during transit operation and 40% in Dynamic Positioning (DP) mode.
In addition to the energy savings, the switch to the new Rim-Drive Azimuth Thrusters will lead to a reduction in maintenance costs for Solstad, according to Kongsberg. The reason for this is that the innovative technology simplifies the drive system by minimising the number of mechanical components, which in turn reduces maintenance costs.
According to Kongsberg, the retrofit process has been carefully planned to be as efficient as possible. It does not require any major modifications to the ship’s hull and the docking time will not be extended.
