Oldendorff’s newbuilds fitted with ABB’s Azipod electric propulsion

China’s Chengxi Shipyard has delivered the first of twin self-unloading transshipment newbuilds to German shipowner Oldendorff Carriers.

The 21,500-DWT transshipment bulkers have been installed with two 1.9-MW Azipod units, as part of a package of electric, digital and connected solutions from ABB.

The scope of supply also included diesel-electric power plant, drive systems complete with two bow thruster motors, power management systems for propulsion and cargo handling, as well as a 50/60-Hz connectors to draw on zero emission shore power when in port.

“Collaborating with ABB has been a very positive experience,” said Joern Westfehling, Newbuilding Manager, Oldendorff Carriers.

”We look forward to reaping the operational rewards of Azipod propulsion, such as enhanced vessel efficiency and increased maneuverability.”

“This was Chengxi Shipyard’s first time installing Azipod technology, and the process went remarkably smoothly. Compared to a conventional propulsion system, ABB Azipod propulsion has greatly reduced the construction complexity for the yard thanks to its simple design and ease of installation,” Jiafa Jiang, Vice General Manager of Chenxi Shipyard (Yangzhou) Co., Ltd added.

Oldendorff said that around 95% of its owned fleet of around 700 ships is comprised of ‘eco’ newbuilds delivered since 2014, which are specifically designed for low fuel consumption and reduced carbon footprint.

And since its forthcoming vessels will be tasked with transferring cargo from oceangoing ships in deep water for delivery to a port with restricted draft and space, maneuverability is also a vital consideration.

“The project fully demonstrates that Azipod is the go-to solution for environmentally conscious operators of all ship types. Because the electric drive motor is housed within a submerged pod outside the ship’s hull, the Azipod unit is capable of 360-degree rotation, improving maneuverability and operational efficiency. This also frees up cargo space on board, potentially boosting vessel profitability further,” said Juha Koskela, Division President, ABB Marine & Ports.

Over the course of three decades, ABB has supplied Azipod units for around 25 vessel types, with the propulsion system accumulating more than 17 million running hours in that time.