ABB to power and remotely monitor new BW Group LNG FSRU vessel

ABB will supply the power and electric propulsion system to BW Group’s new Floating Storage and Regasification Unit (FSRU), which will also be remotely connected to ABB’s Collaborative Operations Centers. The equipment on board will provide data to the shore-side centres, allowing ABB and the vessel owner to take a proactive approach to maintenance throughout the lifetime of the vessel. “The modern power system must be both efficient and connected,” said Juha Koskela, managing director of ABB’s marine and ports business. “Our hardware will optimise fuel efficiency on board and the Collaborative Operations Centers will monitor the vessel, allowing a more informed approach to maintenance.” ABB’s power generation and distribution system, along with the electric propulsion system, will work in conjunction with the duel-fuel diesel engine plant to maximise uptime. Much of ABB’s scope of supply of generators, switchboards, transformers, main propulsion drives and motors will transmit performance data via sensors. This information is automatically monitored from shore at the Collaborative Operations Centers, and ABB will work with the customer during routine and urgent maintenance cases. The 174,000m3 capacity FSRU has been ordered from Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering Co (DSME). The membrane-type vessel is expected to be delivered by DSME’s Okpo yard in 2019.