Posted on April 20, 2022
SEACOR Group member Seabulk’s recently delivered harbor tug Spirit adds to a fast-growing reference list of vessels featuring a fully integrated hybrid propulsion plant from Sweden’s Berg Propulsion. Built by Master Boat Builders, Coden , Ala., the Robert Allan-designed RApport 3000 vessel is the first of two 90-ton bollard pull tugs using what is the most advanced hybrid electric package ever delivered by Berg Propulsion.
In addition to Berg MTA 628 azimuthing thrusters, Berg VS3 variable frequency drives with motors, and its own hybrid control system, Berg’s design, supply, and integration for the vessel includes the switchboard with full power management plus control of the tug’s twin Caterpillar 3512E EPA Tier 4 (2,550 hp) main engines and its gensets – two CAT C18s and one C7.1.
SEAMLESS SWITCHING
Berg’s hybrid electric propulsion system includes high levels of redundancy for safety as well as the ability to switch seamlessly between operating modes with the push of a button. A vessel can run on main engines only, gensets only, or a combination of the two, optimizing energy use across the entire operating profile. A tug in transit can minimize energy consumption and eliminate main engine wear by running on a single generator set. In hybrid mode, power is balanced between the diesel engines and electrical motors to optimize fuel consumption, maneuvering response, and bollard performance.
“During the first weeks in operation, Spartan has been living up to the promises made for hybrid propulsion vessels,” said Seabulk president and CEO Daniel Thorogood. “Seabulk’s commitment to improving the sustainability of its operations is represented by its investment in a new generation of vessels whose flexibility is proving that hybrid tug technology is our choice for the future.”
Installation of the Berg solution at the shipyard was managed by Berg’s distributor and partner in the area, Thompson Marine,
“Thompson Marine managed the details from the earliest design phase through sea trials together with Master Boat Builders, Seabulk, Berg Propulsion, and Caterpillar,” said Richard Tremayne, marine business Manager, Thompson Marine. “This delivery sets down a marker that – with the right team in place – the sustainability and performance benefits of advanced hybrid electric propulsion are available to all.”
“This has been a landmark delivery for Master Boat Builders in next generation tug construction, and a testament to the value of teamwork,” said Garrett Rice, president, Master Boat Builders. “The approach was collaborative throughout the design, engineering, and building phases and we look forward to completing work on the second of these innovative Seabulk tugboats later this year.”
