

Switzerland-based technology firm ABB is set to launch a new torque monitoring system, known as Torductor Marine, with an aim of optimising engine and fuel efficiency in the maritime sector.
The system has already undergone sea trials on Stena Line’s freight ferry, Stena Scotia.
During the trial, Torductor Marine, part of ABB’s Marine Software portfolio, has tracked the performance of the vessel’s engines.
After the test, Stena Line has bought a new Torductor Marine, which will be installed on the starboard shaft.
Equipped with contactless sensors, the solution also helps visualise data for the on-board crew and allows them to share with the ship’s shore-side support team.
ABB marine and ports business unit managing director Juha Koskela said: “The shipping industry is turning to technology to make their fleets more efficient and comply with international regulations.
“At ABB we are leveraging increased ship connectivity and Torductor Marine exemplifies how we are helping ships become more efficient through Marine Software.”
Torductor Marine’s contactless sensors are mounted facing the propeller shaft with a gap of nearly 1.5mm, making the system easy to maintain.
The solution, which is compliant with the requirements of the International Marine Organization’s ship’s energy efficiency management plan (SEEMP), also offers information on the performance of the vessels engine.
Additionally, information on propulsion power, specific fuel oil consumption (SFOC) as well as total number of shaft revolutions and the total amount of energy developed during a voyage can be obtained.
Various performance indicators can be received, when Torductor Marine will be combined with ABB’s CoriolisMaster fuel flow sensors and insight in the Specific Fuel Oil Consumption (SFOC).
Image: Torductor Marine being trialled on-board Stena Line’s freight ferry mv Stena Scotia. Photo: courtesy of ABB.