Tue, 11/18/2014 - 00:00

(18 November 2014)—Drydocks World (DDW) in Dubai has contracted Wärtsilä to design and supply the propulsion and other equipment for a new harbor tug that will operate on liquefied natural gas (LNG). This will be the first harbor tug in the Middle East region to operate on gas. The order was signed in November. The 29-meter long tug is the first of a series of nine vessels to be built and operated by DDW. The project is part of a green-energy initiative launched by the Dubai government and is intended to set an example for promoting environmental sustainability throughout the region. "We are happy to work with Wärtsilä to promote a green image for our harbor work. Wärtsilä is a solution provider with vast experience and expertise in gas fuel systems. The company has a strong local presence and is capable of providing the support needed," said Khamis Juma Buamim, chairman of DDW. In all, Wärtsilä will supply the ship design, two 9-cylinder Wärtsilä 20DF dual-fuel engines, Wärtsilä Steerable Thrusters (WST), type WST-18 Compact thrusters, the automation equipment and the Wärtsilä LNGPac system. The Wärtsilä LNGPac is a complete gas-handling system for LNG-fueled ships. It includes the bunkering station, the LNG tank and related process equipment, as well as the control and monitoring system. With the Wärtsilä WST-18 thrusters, this tug will be equipped with one of the most advanced products in the marine industry. These units, which are part of the new Wärtsilä Steerable Thruster (WST) Compact series, provide optimal efficiency, high hydrodynamic performance and easier maintenance. By achieving outstanding efficiency at different power outputs, the WST Compact series reduces fuel consumption, thereby further lowering the vessel's environmental footprint. "The shift towards the use of LNG fuel is building up speed across the world. We at Wärtsilä feel proud that we have been at the forefront of this movement, first through the development of dual-fuel engine technology, and then by developing a full range of integrated solutions serving the complete gas value chain. This will be the first harbor tug in the Middle East to operate on gas, which indicates the growing importance of environmental issues everywhere," said Ibrahim Behairy, sales director, Middle East, Wärtsilä Ship Power.