ABB icebreaking propulsion to power fleet of LNG carriers

Each of the six new-build vessels will feature a trio of the largest and most powerful ABB Azipod^® propulsion units ever supplied for ships operating in ice. Together, the giant 17 MW Azipod units will provide a total power of 51 MW (68 400 HP), enabling the vessels to navigate safely through ice up to 2.1 m thick. In similar conditions and without ABB’s technology, comparable ships would require icebreaker assistance.

ABB’s Azipod propulsion system for ice-going vessels has earned a strong reputation in the industry. The Azipod propulsion system, where the electric drive motor is located in a submerged pod outside the ship hull, can rotate 360° to boost manoeuvrability, which is particularly crucial for vessels operating in ice. The new LNG carriers will be classed to ARC7 – the highest ice class rating for merchant vessels.

The order follows the successful delivery of ABB’s leading-edge technology for the 15-ship series servicing the Yamal LNG project – one of the largest orders ever for ABB Marine & Ports, completed in 2019.

“We are proud to see our technology to be once again chosen for demanding operations in the Arctic,” said Juha Koskela, Division President, ABB Marine & Ports. “We are committed to supporting the growing Arctic maritime industries with our unparalleled technology that has over the years proven to enable safe, sustainable operations and ensures year-round transportation of cargoes across the Northern Sea Route.”

Upon delivery starting from 2023, the six vessels will service Arctic LNG 2 – one of the largest industrial projects in the Arctic – and will each have the capacity to transport 170 000 m³ of LNG.

Read the article online at: https://www.lngindustry.com/liquid-natural-gas/02112020/abb-icebreaking-propulsion-to-power-fleet-of-lng-carriers/