New Icebreakers Fitted With Metso Automated Control Systems

Metso DNA provide high-technology automatic control system to two new multi-functional icebreaking supply vessels.

Arctech Helsinki Shipyard has been a successful builder of multifunctional icebreaking supply vessels built to operate in harsh conditions in Russia, specializing in shipbuilding technology and today, about 60% of the icebreakers in operation in the world are built in Helsinki. The Russian company Sovcomflot has sufficient confidence in Arctech’s skills that it ordered two identical multifunctional icebreaking supply vessels (MIBSV).

The main purpose of these vessels is to supply the gas production platform and to protect it from ice. The vessels are designed for the Sakhalin-1 Arkutun-Dagi gas field and will be used as supply vessels for the Exxon Neftegas Ltd gas platform.

The first vessel named Vitus Bering was constructed almost 4 months ahead of schedule and reportedly the sister ship is almost complete. Each vessel is 99,9 meters LOA and 21,7 meters in breadth with four engines providing a total power output of 18,000 kW (propulsion power 13,000 kW)

Metso's automation solution for the new ships, Metso DNA, is an integrated system, handling alarm, monitoring and control functions for the vessels’ machinery as well as liquid and bulk cargo spaces. The power plant in the vessels is fully managed by Metso DNA Power Management System.

Jarle Nilsen, Director, Sales and Services, Metso, emphasizes: “In demanding ice conditions, the meaning of correctly performed tasks, early enough detection of possible disturbances, and also a quick recovery from disturbances, play an important role.” The DNA Operate tool supports the user in controlling complex situations.