ABB to Outfit Offshore Construction Newbuild With Digitally Integrated Systems

ABB, the Switzerland-based power and automation technology giant, has been chosen by an undisclosed offshore contractor to deliver a cutting-edge solution for a new DNVGL-classed high spec offshore construction vessel that will be built at Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group Co., Ltd (WSIC).

The scope of work includes integrating a 6.6 kV electrical propulsion system tied in to three 11kV closed-bus switchboards with the ship’s safety and automation systems via ABB’s 800xA distributed control system.   These safety and automation systems include, but are not limited to, fire and gas monitoring, helicopter operations, motion sensors, emergency shut down and heavy lift crane operations.

Integrating all these system will consolidate the data flow from multiple sources into a singular interface for the operator which enhances the decision-making process.  This is the first time ABB will deliver a power and propulsion system fully integrated with their 800xA automation solution which has historically been used in other industries such as mining, food and beverage, facilities and energy.

“Modern ships feature an increasing number of advanced systems, such as power, automation, advisory and safety. When all these systems are integrated, the advantages are significant: reduced investment costs, optimized maintenance, improved power control and equipment availability. The selection of ABB’s integrated solution for a demanding project like this is a strong endorsement of our offering,” says Heikki Soljama, head of ABB’s business unit Marine and Cranes.

The vessel will be delivered in Q1 2018, and is designed for pipelaying, heavy lifting and subsea construction operations and extends expertise into the deepwater market.

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