American Electric Technologies to Power USCG Patrol Boats

American Electric Technologies, Inc. a supplier of custom-designed power distribution and control solutions for the traditional and alternative energy industries, announced its subsidiary, South Coast Electric Systems, L.L.C., has begun delivery of power systems for eight Bollinger Shipyard-manufactured 87-ft. marine protector class coastal patrol boats (CPB) contracted by the United States Coast Guard (USCG).

Financial details were not disclosed. Increased homeland security and other heightened law enforcement issues like drug and illegal alien interdiction have not only raised the bar for sanctions, but also the requirements for the vessels that keep America's borders safe. Bollinger has contracted AETI to deliver eight sets of American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), marine-class generator controls and power distribution switchgear for the multi-mission CPBs, which are capable of performing search and rescue, law enforcement and fisheries patrol missions. The switchgear has been custom-designed to meet the strict requirements for size and weight of these armed vessels. The CPBs, which have two MTU 8V 396 TE94 diesel engines, are built to carry up to 2,900 gallons of fuel and can tow up to a 200-ton vessel.

The system includes slow-speed drive capabilities to help the vessels maneuver in restricted waters or tow small pleasure craft after a successful search and rescue mission. The engine control and monitoring systems are equipped with operational data recorders to provide performance-based maintenance and to improve logistic support. AETI has already delivered two power systems for the CPBs being built at Bollinger's Lockport, La. Facility, and is scheduled to deliver at least one ship set each month until the first quarter of 2008.