First hybrid LNG tugboat begins operation

Designed, built and operated by engineering solutions provider, Seatrium, the 29m JMS Sunshine has a 65-tonne bollard pull. The hybrid tug is powered by two Rolls-Royce 16-cylinder mtu Series 4000M55RN gas engines.

“We are proud that we were able to contribute to Seatrium’s innovative project with our gas engines,” said Chew Xiang Yu, head of Rolls-Royce Power Systems’ civil marine business in Asia.

“The workboat market is one of our strategic business areas. The mtu engines were selected because they meet the demanding requirements of harbour tug operations in terms of reliability, ease of operation, dynamic engine behaviour and low emissions.”

The hybrid system is said to be particularly suitable for the load profile of the harbour tug as it enables very precise manoeuvring and a strong bollard pull at full power.

The total power of the two azimuth stern thrusters is 4000 kilowatts, achieved by adding to the 1492 kilowatts each supplied by the mtu gas engines and 500 kilowatts of electric motor power on each shaft.

“The handling of mtu engines is straight-forward, and user-friendly,” said Chiam Toon Chong, technical superintendent, Seatrium Marine Services. “Additionally, spare part availability and service support is excellent for the operation of tugs.”

The tug is also equipped with a battery capacity of 904 kilowatt hours to supply onboard powers, for use during fully electric operation in port, and to augment the engines at peak loads

Rolls-Royce’s Power Systems division has equipped 11 ships worldwide with mtu gas engines as propulsion systems and onboard gensets. These include ferries, tugs and government vessels.