Chinese shipbuilder Wuhu Shipyard has won a contract for the construction of a series of highly efficient heavylift vessels for a Germany-based maritime heavy lift specialist, emphasisingits position in nichetrades. The methanol-fuelled vessels establish a new standard for fuel efficiency in the sector.
The series of four newbuildings has been ordered on behalf of SAL Heavy Lift, a Germany-based maritime heavy lift specialist. The order includes an option for a further two vessels.Thedelivery for the first vessel is scheduled for mid-2024, followed by the other vessels in the series.
The first two shipswill be exclusively involved in the transportation of offshore wind turbine componentsin a long-term commitment with Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy.
The third and fourth vessels have been earmarkedto analliance between SAL Heavy Lift and Jumbo from the first half of 2025.
The 149.9-metre long 14,600dwt vessels will be equipped with dual fuel main engines capable of operating on methanol. In the future, SAL Heavy Lift and Jumbo expect to be able to offer carbon-neutral transport options once green methanol becomes available in larger ports.
Furthermore, the vessels feature onshore power connections, which would make them emission-free during port calls. The vessels will also featureEnergy Storage Systems, which enable hybrid solutions when transiting.
The vessels will offer best in class fuel consumption, with an expected fuel consumption of below 20 tons of fuel oil per day atservice speeds of 15 knots.By operating at slower speeds of 10 knots, the vessels will be able to lower fuel consumption to6 /day.
“The Orca vessels are setting new standards in global heavy lift shipping. They represent the new benchmark both in terms of their technical capabilities and modernclimate-friendly propulsion systems,”Martin Harren, Owner and CEO of SAL Heavy Lift and the Harren Group, announced last week.
The use of electrification extends to the vessel’s twin 800t fully-electric Liebherr cranes, which offer the vessel a 1,600t capacity when operating in tandem.The vessels’ energy management systems will permit energy recovery from the system.
SAL Heavy Lift noted that the vessels’ design has been optimised. Despite thecompact outer dimensions, the vessels have a box-shaped single cargo hold with the largest dimensions in its class. Provided the hatch covers with a capacity of 10 t/m² are not utilised for stowing super-heavy deck cargoes, such as 3,000 t cable carousels, the vessels can accommodate over-height cargo in the hold and sail with open hatch covers up to full scantling draft.
