New auto systems for hybrid dredger

The Krakesandt TSHD specialises in sand and gravel extraction at sea and is the focus of Alewijnse’s second advanced dredging project undertaken at Thecla Bodewes Shipyards for its client, De Hoop Terneuzen. The first was for Krakesandt’s sister vessel, Anchorage.

Once again, Alewijnse was responsible for the design, building, installation and commissioning of the switchboards, consoles and the dedicated alarm, monitoring and control systems. It also undertook the design, engineering, supply and commissioning of the dredging automation system, including visualisation, monitoring and process control.

“The Krakesandt has been a beautiful and innovative project,” said Emiel Mocking, manager newbuilding at Thecla Bodewes Shipyards. “She is the second hopper dredger of this type to be delivered successfully and on time in a period when the global supply chain is facing many challenges.”

Innovative TSHDs

The 105.90 metre Krakesandt, named after a sandbank off the coast of Cadzand in the Netherlands, is entirely Dutch-built. It has a single suction arm and storage capacity of 3000m³. In addition to enabling smart power management, the use of electric propulsion is said to increase propeller efficiency, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

Barkmeijer Shipyards, part of Thecla Bodewes, has collaborated with Alewijnse to develop a smart, integrated bus-driven system, meaning the crew can be reduced to just seven or eight.

Several other automation systems are also on board, including an alarm and monitoring system and bridge operating system. Also being fitted is a dredge control system, ship system control, draught and loading system and suction tube system.