KONGSBERG Integrated Automation for LNG Fuelled Bulker

Kongsberg Maritime has been chosen to supply a full integrated automation solution including the first delivery of its advanced new Fuel Gas Supply System (FGSS) for a newbuild 50,000 DWT LNG Fuelled bulk carrier, ordered by South Korean ship owner, Ilshin Shipping Company. The new bulk carrier will be built at Hyundai Mipo Dockyard and is scheduled for delivery during the fourth quarter of 2017. It is the first dual-fuel merchant vessel to be built in South Korea.

Ilshin’s new bulk carrier signals the beginnings of a move towards LNG bunkering in the far east, driven by the lower cost of fuel and the need for more environmentally friendly vessel operation, in addition to new mandatory requirements for cleaner shipping through Sulphur Emission Control Areas (SECA) and Emission Control Areas (ECA). As an established supplier to shipyards globally, including in South Korea and China, KONGSBERG is well positioned to support the industry with FGSS solutions, with a portfolio of technology developed to enable full control of diverse vessel configurations.

In addition to the advanced new FGSS solution, the delivery includes K-Chief 600 alarm, monitoring and control system, AutoChief 600 propulsion control system, Bearing Wear Monitoring System (BWCM), Emergency Shutdown System (ESDS) and K-Gauge fuel tank monitoring. The AutoChief 600 propulsion control system will be integrated with the Kongsberg FGSS to ensure seamless control of the main Fuel Gas valve, propulsion and main engine.

“Kongsberg Maritime has an established long-term relationship with Hyundai Heavy Industries and we are keen to support its shift towards building ‘Green Ships’ to comply with new ECA/SECA requirements. Our diverse portfolio of integrated technology is designed to make shipping more efficient. Our systems make new solutions like Fuel Gas Supply Systems a viable option for more vessel types, enabling more shipowners to save money on bunkering costs and the shipping industry to reduce its overall environmental footprint,” said Morten Stanger, Vice President, Merchant Marine Sales, Kongsberg Maritime.