GE Solutions picked for Peruvian polar ship

A 95 m diesel electric polar research and oceanographic ship under construction for Peru at Spain's Freire Shipyard will incorporate a suite of systems from GE (NYSE: GE) Marine Solutions business.

GE's low-voltage electric propulsion system – including generators, switchboard, MV3000 variable frequency drives and motors – is known for its fuel efficiency and its high redundancy rate. GE will also provide its SeaStream DP and automation solution to complete the package.

The system can be upgraded with remote diagnostic systems if needed in the future.The ship will be used by the Peruvian Navy to carry out research in the polar regions and priorities include reliability, efficieny while having the smallest environmental impact possible.

An important requirement is a lower underwater noise signature and, with the help of GE's anti-vibration motor, the electric propulsion system will meet DNV GL's maritime Silent-A Class notation.

"GE's expertise and ability to deliver innovative technology will help to make this research vessel among one of the most advanced in the world," says Guillermo Freire, general manager, Freire Shipyard. "GE's cost-effective offerings and commitment to successfully deliver high-quality solutions on a tight schedule have been remarkable to say the least. We are impressed with the company's technical capabilities and are excited to have GE's support in this project."

"GE's vast experience in providing similar solutions has allowed us to help the Peruvian Navy build an advanced research ship that will operate efficiently, reliably and with minimal environmental impact even in the most hostile environments," says Tim Schweikert, president & CEO, GE's Marine Solutions business. "We are committed to continually pushing the boundaries of innovation and meeting the future challenges of the industry."

The vessel is being designed by Norway's Skipsteknisk and is scheduled for delivery in 2017.According to Skipsteknisk the vessel is being outfitted and prepared mainly for the following duties:• Single & Multibeam Echosounder Surveys

• Integrated Data Logging

• Multidisiplinary Science Projects

• Seismic Surveys

• Clean Seawater Sampling

• ROV Operations

• CTD Surveys

• Deepwater Coring and Trawling/Towing

Main Characteristics

Length over all 95.30 m

Length between p.p. 84.00 m

Breadth moulded 18.00 m

Depth to main deck 6.40 m

Depth to 1st deck 9.20 m

Ice class PC 7

Noise class Silent A

Number of crew / scientists 50 / 60

Dynamic positioning class DPS2