IHC Merwede has launched the first IHC Beaver® 65 DDSP at the company's Sliedrecht shipyard in The Netherlands.
The successor to the highly successful IHC Beaver® 6518 is part of the renowned IHC Beaver® series of standard cutter suction dredgers.
The new vessel has been designed with a Directly Driven Submerged Pump (DDSP) mounted on the cutter ladder. This feature means that it is possible to dredge at high-mixture densities, as there will be no limitation on the vacuum – even at larger dredging depths.
By driving the DDSP directly with the prime mover – a diesel engine – energy losses are kept at a minimum, as the conversion to electric or hydraulic energy is not required. The patented pivoting gearbox is reliable, safe and free of maintenance.
The IHC Beaver® 65 DDSP can be set to work on inland waters and the sea. The latest innovations and technologies have been incorporated into the vessel, making it more reliable, efficient, easy to maintain and productive. After the launch event, the new dredger was towed into IHC Merwede's harbour in Sliedrecht, where it will be tested and prepared for shipment.