Emissions reductions have been confirmed for the first ’laker’ to feature a diesel-electric drive train, after the initial weeks in service of Canada Steamship Lines’ (CSL) new self-unloader Nukumi.
The vessel arrived in Halifax in time to take up duties for the 2022 Great Lakes season complete with patented Direct Drive Electric technology from Berg Propulsion.
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The 26,000 metric tons deadweight Nukumi is a single point loader developed by CSL in collaboration with Windsor Salt to deliver de-icing salt from Mines Seleine on Magdalens Islands for use on roads across Quebec and Newfoundland.
Frederic Jauvin, Vice-President, Global Technical Services, CSL said that, compared to its predecessor, the ship’s combination of optimized hull form, electric propulsion technology and Tier III diesel-electric engines would cut greenhouse gases by 25% and other pollutants by 80%. The propulsion solution will also enhance maneuverability in the shallow Magdalen Island channel.
Nukumi charts new waters when it comes to safe, sustainable and efficient shipping in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and Great Lakes region
said Mr. Jauvin.
The removal of gears allows for shorter shaft lines, fewer bearings and a smaller engine room footprint, while very high torque meant the same power could drive larger propellers, added Nyberg.
Berg indicates that energy savings compared to other electrical solutions can be in the excess of 5%, with equivalent fuel savings available. Direct Drive Electric is also ‘future-proofed’ to accommodate alternative energy sources, using a DC hub – or ‘superdrive’ – to draw on main engines or stored energy from zero emission batteries and fuel cells, as required.
