Bermuda-based Himalaya Shipping has chosen Swiss automation company ABB to deploy its shaft generators with a power-take-off (PTO) solution aboard 12 210,000dwt bulk carriers.

The solution will include new drive systems and permanent magnet technology, which is expected to enhance the ships’ energy efficiency by up to 4%.

ABB’s equipment package will also consist of engineering, project management and commissioning services, along with low-voltage drives and transformers.

The energy systems of the vessels will be designed in line with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) and Carbon Intensity Index (CII).

The Capesize vessels, which are said to be among ‘the most efficient ships of their type’, will be delivered from China’s New Times Shipbuilding starting in 2023.

In a statement, ABB said: “Shaft generator performance gains exploit the inclusion of permanent magnet technology and new ACS880 single drive systems from ABB, the drive system delivering greater responsiveness for the changing power needs of a bulk carrier depending on the speed, bulk freight weight and electrical load changing.”

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Compared to other alternatives, ABB technology is projected to decrease fuel costs by between 3% and 4%.

ABB’s equipment package is nearly 20% more compact in comparison with equivalent units loaded with synchronous excitation machines.

Furthermore, ABB’s solution supports higher power density, which results in lower fuel consumption and emissions.

New Times Shipbuilding deputy director Qiaohua Dong said: “With more strict emissions regulations and requirements, our shipyard should also adapt to new technologies and solutions.

“It is the first time for us to install ABB’s latest shaft generator system. By utilising this energy-efficient system, it will also help us to develop the capability of building an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly future.”

ABB marine and ports global segment dry cargo manager Michael D Christensen said: “The solution offers a range of benefits to help shipowners and operators enhance efficiency and reduce emissions without the need for additional investments compared to a standard synchronous excitation machine. Furthermore, the ABB ACS880 drive system ensures supreme performance and the very best uptime in class.”

Earlier this month, Hyundai Heavy Industries’ unit Hyundai Global Service teamed up with ABB Turbocharging to offer a sustainable engine part-load optimisation service.