MIT and Transfluid supply hybrid unit to vessel built by Wight Shipyard

UK shipbuilder Wight Shipyard says its new-build hybrid vessel will set new industry standards in the patrol and pilot sectors, helping operators including port and river authorities, police, MOD and Royal Navy meet strict new pollution standards.

The vessel has been designed by naval architect Chartwell Marine and is the first in the new Chasewell range of pilot and patrol boats. The aim behind the design is to substantially improve air quality at major ports in the UK and further afield, and help operators meet emissions reduction goals.

According to Andy Page, managing director of Chartwell Marine, the vessel has a unique hybrid system architecture and an innovative new hull form that minimizes drag and resistance throughout the speed range. “Ultimately this hull form, optimized through extensive CFD testing, allows the operator to maximize time spent on electrical power, with substantial advantages when it comes to reducing total emissions.”

Marine and Industrial Transmission (MIT) and its manufacturing and technology partner Transfluid are providing the hybrid system for the vessel. MIT’s system was selected to form part of the Chasewell powertrain. Transfluid’s HM560 marine hybrid unit used in the drive configuration delivers ratings of up to 164kW diesel power and 20kW electric power. Using rechargeable batteries and battery management system, the unit actively manages power output and charge rate depending on the battery status and condition.

Meanwhile, the control system allows users to switch between operating modes. The intelligent software can integrate with other onboard systems for extended control and diagnostics.

“This groundbreaking project aims to set new standards in high speed, fuel economy and lightweight vessels in the sector,” said Peter Morton, CEO, Wight Shipyard. “Building greener vessels has been an integral focus for some time now, so moving into hybrid options is the obvious next step forward.”