Engines Quiet Oceanographic Vessels

requirements in the framework of the new EC Green Policy.

The Opportunity

Future research vessels (FRV) play an important role in collecting and analyzing

data from the ocean so that we have a better understanding of it. However, the

large vessels'' propulsion systems give off high vibrations and noise levels.

A few years ago, Dresser-Rand Guascor® product experts developed an

unprecedented new technical solution that significantly reduced the vibration and

noise levels transmitted to the sea by the ship''s propulsion system. The system

was installed on the Miguel Oliver FRV with great success.

The Miguel Oliver vessel is equipped with the most modern equipment: an efficient, silent diesel-electric propulsion system; a dynamic positioning system that helps the vessel to keep its reference position even in adverse sea conditions; and deck

equipment that makes fishing operations possible at unstudied depths – where

researchers believe there is significant fishing potential.

The Solution

The FRV Ramón Margalef comprises three generator sets driven by Dresser-Rand

Guascor® F480TA-SG diesel engines, each with an output of 868 kW at 1,500 rpm. This set-up produces all of the power required to drive the two electric motors and provides all of the ship''s electricity for on-board services and machinery.

The Ramón Margalef vessel was delivered to the Spanish Oceanographic Institute (IEO) and meets the strictest environmental requirements.

It is one of the most silent vessels in all of the European FRV fleet – and perhaps of the civilian fleet – in the world.

The FRV Angeles Alvariño is the twin vessel of the Ramón Margalef and employs the same diesel engine system to reduce vibration and noise.