Electronic control wins hydraulic efficiency

The new VWT Shinano for shipowner Fukushima Kisen is equipped with two size 32 R5 ECS/265-2 Voith Schneider Propellers (VSPs) with an input power of 2,600 kW each.

Until now the issue has been that fairly bulky hydraulic components including tank and pumps (main and spare), are required for electronic control systems. “To date these have been positioned separately and always resulted in space issues arising in the machine room. On the ECS version, these components will now be mounted directly on the VSP,” explained Nadine Queiser of Voith.

Integrating the hydraulic unit not only saves space, it results in a reduction in energy consumption due to the direct control of the proportional valves and the elimination of a separate unit. Not only does it mean a better use of space, fewer hydraulic lines are also needed.

In addition operators also benefit from improved maintenance friendliness and increased reliability resulting from the design. Components of the cooling unit, the pump systems (mechanically driven main pump as well as electrically driven standby pump) and the lube-oil and control oil reservoirs are easily accessible.

A completely new control stand has been designed to comply with the latest technical requirements, such as display functions.

Constructed by Niigata Shipbuilding based in Niigata, Japan, the VWT Shinano has been designed for general harbour assistance and escort duties. In addition to the new control system, the VWT Shinano is equipped with a Voith Turbo Fin to increase indirect tow rope pull, in particular when escorting. The vessel is also fitted with a Voith roll stabilisation system.