The power and automation technology group ABB was granted an Approval in[ds_preview] Principal (AIP) for the onboard DC (direct current) grid power distribution system by classification society ABS. AIP is a framework used by most classification societies to review and approve innovative and novel concepts not covered by traditional classification rules. In order to be granted the AIP, the onboard DC grid was subject to a series of risk assessment techniques to determine if the concept provides acceptable levels of safety in line with current marine industry practice, requirements and standards.
According to ABB the AIP now granted by ABS is a strong tool to support and streamline the design, approval, execution and inspection of new projects. The benefits should extend to all parties involved in the shipbuilding process: designers, shipowners, ship-yards and classification societies.
ABB said it has created one of the most flexible marine power and propulsion systems ever brought to market. The system allows generators to operate at variable speed which in turn offers up to 20% fuel savings over a conventional plant with significant space savings potential, improved dynamic response and reduced emissions. In addition it should enable supplementary DC energy sources including solar panels, fuel cells or batteries to be plugged directly into the ship’s DC electrical systems, creating scope for further fuel savings.
Platform support vessel (PSV) »Dina Star« (see picture), delivered to Norwegian company Myklebusthaug Offshore by Kleven Yard in April 2013, is the first ship powered with ABB’s full onboard DC grid system.
