ABB Wins Largest Permanent Magnet Shaft Generator Order For 30 LNG Carriers

ABB, a robotics and electrical equipment company, has won its biggest-ever order to equip 30 Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) carriers with Permanent Magnet Shaft Generator Systems.

The order was made by Chinese and South Korean shipbuilders, with 18 and 12 vessels set to receive the systems, respectively. These LNG carriers are scheduled to be delivered between 2028 and 2030.

The Permanent Magnet Shaft Generator System generates power from the ship’s main engine and enhances fuel efficiency by reducing reliance on auxiliary engines.

Unlike conventional solutions, this technology reduces the need to start high-speed, fuel-intensive auxiliary engines during voyages, saving fuel.

It delivers superior efficiency compared to induction and electrically excited synchronous machines, both at partial and full load.

Per ABB, the system can reduce fuel expenses by up to 4% compared to traditional alternatives. When combined with ABB’s ACS880 Converter and Control System, the efficiency gains can increase by an additional 1%.

The design of the system will also save space and weight by up to 20% while lowering installation and maintenance costs.

ABB Marine & Ports’ Global Segment Responsible for Cargo Vessels, Michael Christensen, described the contract as the largest combined order for the company’s permanent magnet shaft generator systems.

He added that the agreements include first-time customers for this particular system, confirming its growing appeal across various cargo vessel types, for enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced operating costs.

Reference: ABB

Source: Maritime Shipping News