Germany’s Blohm +
Voss Repair GmbH (B+V) has signed a contract with Norway’s Red Band AS, Oslo, for the repair and extensive alteration work onboard the 28,670 grt passenger ship Black Watch. The 1972-built vessel will arrive at B+V during April next year (2005), the first time she has visited the yard since November 2003.
The remodelling and modernisation work will concentrate on reducing the vessel’s noise and vibration level. A complete new propulsion system with four MAN/B&W 7L32/40 diesel engines, each with an output of 3,500 kW at 750 rpm, will be installed. The repair will also include the installation of new Renk double step-down gear units, NDSL-2800, and two MAN/B&W 8L21/31 Gensets for the generating power supply.
"We are very proud to be playing such a decisive role in the remodelling of the Black Watch. This project underlines the outstanding position of MAN driving systems in shipping", emphasised Dr. Stefan Spindler, Board member of the German diesel engine contractor MAN/B&W Diesel AG. The new propulsion system will be fitted elastically on prefabricated foundations; the propeller blades will also be renewed and adapted to the new engine output. All measures will contribute to considerably reducing the noise and vibration level after the modification work is completed.
The two existing exhaust boilers for steam production will be replaced by four new units.
The Black Watch will receive a completely new propulsion checking system to run the new units in combination operation. A new "Power Management" system will be installed to optimise the energy supply. Extensive modernisation work will also be carried out on safety devices, cabins and public areas.
After a 57-day stay in the shipyard – including a two-day test drive to check the functionality of the new driving unit and systems - the Black Watch will leave B+V en route for Southampton. "It's a major achievement for Blohm + Voss Repair GmbH to have asserted itself against international competition with a tender of only 57 days for this complex and fastidious repair order", said Gerhard Kempf, Managing Director of Blohm + Voss Repair.