SAM Electronics for New U.S. Tankers

Three new shallow-draught 49,000-dwt tankers ordered by AHL Shipping of San Antonio, Texas for subsequent long-term charter to Shell Trading (US) in 2009-2010 are to be equipped with SAM Electronics’ navigation, communication and propulsion systems as part of a single-source vendor contract obtained by parent organisation, L-3 Communications of New York. Associate L-3 companies, L-3 of Westwood, Oklahoma and Valmarine of Norway are also to supply equipment, with Valmarine due to deliver its Damatic DNA series of integrated automation systems (IAS). The IAS covers complete control and monitoring of machinery systems. Power management is also integrated to the IAS while a mode change system enhances safe and easy transition between two sailing modes. SAM Electronics’ scope of delivery for each vessel comprises a NACOS 35-5 integrated navigation command system and a GMDSS A-3 communication network. The navigation system is designed to the highest standards with complete redundancy of all components, including dual track-keeping facilities normally employed aboard cruiseliners. The ships are also being equipped with diesel-electric systems with state-of-the-art medium voltage Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) converter technology, three 5,765 kW medium-speed generator sets and two 4,650 kW propulsion motors. The modular-designed vessels, which will have a cargo capacity of 330,000 barrels for transportation of crude oil, chemicals and products within domestic US trade lanes, will be the first Jones Act tanker newbuilds classed by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) under the Common Structural Rules (CSR) adopted last year by the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS). Hull construction and final assembly of the vessels will be carried out by Atlantic Marine Alabama LLC, Mobile, Alabama with other domestic yards and speciality concerns expected to also participate in their building.