Eye on Maritime Design: Can Wind Propulsion Work by Keeping it Simple?
While it is starting to look like some clever wind/power sail technologies are starting to appear, too often I have looked at the cargo cranes of geared bulkers and wondered if it makes sense to rig some sort of sail on them.I think the fancier approaches fight the “build a little, test a little, learn a lot” engineering maxim in new technology development, and maybe doing more simple stuff may be a better way to achieve lasting results quicker.A recent conversation with a sustainable propulsion advocate compelled me to run a few numbers.I found a bulker with a GA for a 2010 era 25…
AlfaWall Oceanbird, a JV to Develop Wind Propulsion for Ships
As the maritime industry strives toward 2050 and strict new emission regulations, driving toward decarbonization, a number of 'future fuels' are emerging that show promise. It is generally agreed that a solution will not be born in a vacuum, with collaboration being the key to meaningful movement. In that regard, this morning, two maritime power players -- Alfa Lava and Wallenius -- announced their intent to form a new 50/50 joint venture called AlfaWall Oceanbird that will focus…
Marine Engine Emissions: GE Changes the Conversation
As operators ponder the thorny question of dual fuel, LNG or SCR Treatment, GE Transportation’s new medium speed marine diesel engine seemingly simplifies the playing field. The October 2014 news that global oilfield giant Oceaneering had committed to building a ship designed with GE Transportation marine diesel engines was ordinary enough, but the recent keel laying ceremony held at the BAE Systems Shipyard in Mobile, AL held special significance for not only Oceaneeering, but for GE as well. That’s because the first ship to be outfitted with GE Transportation’s newest marine engine offering – ones which meet EPA Tier 4i and IMO Tier III Emissions standards – all without the need for a Selective Catalytic Reduction system (SCR) exhaust gas after-treatment…
GNS Launches Free E-Navigation Solutions
At SMM in Hamburg, Germany this week, Global Navigation Solutions (GNS), the maritime services group announces the launch of (i) its new free Essentials package, as well as (ii) an upgrade to the Voyager Planning Station dashboard, and (iii) a new bundle purchasing option. With effect from 1 October 2014, GNS customers will be able to use its new Voyager Essentials Package free of charge. This will enable vessels to benefit from GNS’s navigational purchasing and information management tools irrespective of whether they are using chart updating and other added value services on board. Vessel’s using the Voyager Essentials package can…
Triton’s Yacht-based Submersible to Debut in Monaco
New lightweight, low profile Triton 1000/3 LP designed specifically to fit into existing yacht tender garages. Triton Submarines (Triton) announced that it will introduce its newest model, the Triton 1000/3 LP (Low Profile) at the 2014 Monaco Yacht show September 24-27. Triton’s model line now includes eleven models configured for two to eight passengers with depth ratings from 1,000 feet (305 meters) to 5,500 feet (1,675 meters) as well as the full ocean depth rated Triton 36000/3. Yacht-based submersibles continue to gain popularity in the yachting community.
Keystone Backers Keep Their Faith In Embattled Pipeline Plan
Six years after applying to build the Keystone XL pipeline, Canada's frustrated oil industry appears steadfast in its support of the plan even though Washington has again delayed a decision on whether to approve the politically charged project. The reason is simple: A massive new pipeline to the U.S. Gulf Coast remains the most elegant solution for producers looking to export burgeoning supplies of crude from Canada's oil sands to the United States. TransCanada Corp's $5.4 billion pipeline would seamlessly pump enough crude from Alberta to Texas to meet 4 percent of total U.S. demand. "We're definitely supportive of the project," said Brad Bellows, a spokesman for MEG Energy Corp, which produces crude from Alberta's oil sands though it has not committed to ship on Keystone.
The 'All American' Research Vessel Delivered
At 134-feet (40.8 meters) in length the research vessel Sea Scout is the largest catamaran built by All American Marine in Bellingham, Washington and the largest vessel designed by Nic deWaal’s Teknicraft Design of Auckland New Zealand. With its length and 37-foot 4-inch beam, this is not only a large vessel it is, as C&C Technologies Survey Services newest vessel, a highly sophisticated and complex craft. A vessel such of this has a dual personality. The first being a crewed vessel designed to get from place to place in an efficient manner.
