Hopper Dredge Frederick Paup

Designed and built specifically to meet the needs of the U.S. dredging market, she boasts 25,000 HP -- 3x Wabtec 16V250MDC + 2x Wabtec 12V250MDC -- and volumetric capacity of over 15,000 cubic yards.

Utilizing her triple Z Drives and twin Bow Thrusters enables the Frederick Paup to maneuver and dredge within the tightest channels. This further enhances her capability to minimize operational delays as she can maintain performance in the event a Z Drive or bowthruster has a mechanical failure.

The Dynamic Positioning feature adds additional flexibility to hold stationary position or track a designated course while performing dredging operations. The utilization of sealed underwater motors enhances the dredging operation by reducing the suction distance between the drag head and the pump thus making it more efficient.

With her two in-hull pumps, the Frederick Paup will enhance Manson’s competitiveness on beach nourishment and coastal restoration projects and help the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) meet their goal of 70% of dredged material being beneficially reused by 2030. Being diesel electric and having Tier 4 engines, the FREDERICK PAUP is very fuel efficient and environmentally friendly at a lower cost per unit.

Seventh BC Ferries’ Island Class

Damen Shipyards Group completed sea trials for the latest Island Class ferry for BC Ferries, the seventh Island Class vessel in a series of 10. An interesting aspect of the sea trials of the vessel was the measurement of underwater radiated noise (URN). BC Ferries is working hard to reduce the URN of its vessels to protect the unique maritime ecosystem in its region – with a particular focus on the endangered Southern Resident Killer Whale.

To this end, Damen and BC Ferries have optimized the design of the Island Class vessels to lower URN. This has involved taking measurements of vessels already in operation and making amendments to the design. This included using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and tank testing to reduce drag in the water and adjusting the propulsion system and propellers.

“Damen Shipyards has been instrumental in BC Ferries’ fleet renewal efforts to meet the needs of BC coastal communities today as well as the needs of the future”, said David Tolman, Program Manager, Fleet Renewal at BC Ferries.

In a further move towards increased maritime sustainability, Damen is preparing the Island Class vessels with the capability of full electric operations once shoreside charging infrastructure is in place. To support the operation, Damen is also supplying BC Ferries with vessel charging infrastructure.

'Plug-In' Hybrid Fast Ferry Enters Service

In a milestone for Auckland’s public transport network, the city’s first plug-in hybrid electric fast ferry has performed well on sea trials and will soon enter service on the busy Auckland to Devonport commuter route. The vessel achieved a top speed of 36 knots on all-electric mode, with the performance of the electric propulsion and onboard systems consistently meeting and surpassing expectations. Designed by Incat Crowther, built by Q-West Boat Builders with systems integration by Hamilton Jet, the operationally flexible 32-m vessel is the first in a fleet of two new electric hybrid fast ferries that will be operated by Fullers360 for Auckland Transport. Capable of transporting up to 299 passengers and 20 bicycles at speeds of up to 28 knots, the vessel’s drivetrain includes four Danfoss EM-PMI540-T4000 electric motors and Hamilton HTX42 water jets.

This includes liquid cooling systems featuring pumps and heat exchangers for e-motors, converters, inverters and switchboards, and chillers for batteries. The design also features electrical equipment and cable route arrangement to minimize electromagnetic interference, the selection and integration of fire suppression systems, and battery room ventilation systems. Weight control for such expansive systems has been critical, with each item weighed and tracked throughout construction.

The vessel’s drivetrain features the ability to employ a pair of range-extending generators that can be used in conjunction with the battery bank. This technology supports electrification and the reduction of emissions whilst delivering on timetable and range requirements. The new vessels are also future-proofed and can be refitted to operate on hydrogen fuel for increased range in the future.