The technology group Wärtsilä has secured a contact to supply the engines, propellers and fuel supply systems for four new tankers, owned by the Swedish based company Erik Thun.
The ships will run on both liquefied natural gas (LNG) and diesel, and are being built at the Scheepsw[ds_preview]erf Ferus Smit yard in the Netherlands.
The 115 m long coastal tankers feature a ‘next generation‘ design focusing on high energy efficiency, low noise levels both above and below the water, and environmental sustainability. The full scope of supply for each of the four vessels includes a 6-cylinder Wärtsilä 34DF dual-fuel main engine, a LNGPac fuel supply system, a Gas Valve Unit (GVU), and a Controllable Pitch Propeller (CPP) with HP nozzle. The equipment will be delivered to the yard commencing in 2018.
A notable feature of the Wärtsilä fuel system to be supplied is its open type Tank Connection Space (TCS) that allows natural ventilation. According to the manufacturer the benefits of this system are its reduced weight, a combined cargo heating medium that controls the temperature both inside the TCS as well as for evaporating the LNG, less installation work for the yard, and a reduced power supply requirement.
When delivered, the ice-class 1A vessels will be capable of handling the year round sailing conditions in the Baltic Sea.
In 2014, the Scheepswerf Ferus Smit built two cement carriers on behalf of Erik Thun. These are now operated by JT Cement; a joint venture company with Norway based KG Jebsen Cement. Those ships also feature Wärtsilä dual-fuel propulsion.
