ABB has secured an order from Norwegian shipyard Ulstein Verft to produce a complicated energy and propulsion system for a brand new cable-laying vessel (CLV) being constructed for Nexans.
Upon supply in 2026, the vessel will be a part of Nexans Skagerrak and sister ship Nexans Aurora – additionally outfitted with ABB know-how – because the third and most superior CLV within the Nexans fleet.
An built-in system comprising primary energy technology and distribution, power storage, and electrical propulsion will enable the brand new CLV to execute its cable laying, restoration, and restore duties in a secure and environment friendly method.
With a closed-ring configuration offering excessive fault tolerance and optimum engine use in dynamic-positioning (DP) operations, the system is anticipated to reduce the danger of energy loss for enhanced security and reliability whereas maximizing operational flexibility and gasoline effectivity.
The onboard power storage system (ESS) will even cut back engine working hours to maintain engine put on and tear to a minimal, in accordance with ABB.
In addition, the ESS will present spinning reserve and peak-shaving capabilities, appearing as a back-up energy supply in case of engine failure and supporting the vessel’s extra energy-intensive operations.
“Following the success of Nexans Aurora, ABB is proud to be involved in this project to deliver the new sister ship. Nexans appreciates the benefits that our closed-ring system, ESS, and RDS provide to support safe, efficient, and reliable cable-laying operations. We look forward to strengthening our relationship with both Nexans and Ulstein Verft,” stated Rune Braastad, Global Business Line Manager, Marine Systems, ABB Marine and Ports.
Alongside primary system elements – generator, switchboards, transformers, frequency converters, motors, DC switchboard for batteries, and ESS – ABB’s scope of provide consists of the Remote Diagnostic System (RDS) for propulsion, thruster inverters, and rectifiers in addition to cyber safety configuration for the RDS.
