Gigantic 360-degree propulsion system received onboard polar research vessel Polarstern 2
The "Polarstern 2", a pioneering research vessel, is set to enter service in 2030, funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF). This new ship, designed to operate as an icebreaker in Arctic regions for climate and polar research, will replace the current research vessel "Polarstern", which has served for 42 years.
Powered by a total of four W31 engines from Wärtsilä, the "Polarstern 2" will boast a combined diesel-electric power of 33.1 MW. Two of these engines are dual-fuel capable, able to run on both diesel and green methanol, contributing to the vessel's eco-friendly design.
The "Polarstern 2" will incorporate new technology such as underwater robots and drones. Its propulsion system will be a marvel, featuring the largest 360-degree ship propellers in the world, with a diameter of almost 5 meters, built by Aker Arctic. The vessel will also have two SP 160 Pull Arc Azimut thrusters from Steerprop, each providing 9 MW of power and capable of rotating 360 degrees.
The centerline propeller, the main propulsion of the "Polarstern 2", will have a diameter of 5.4 meters. The quiet propulsion system, which includes the electric 360-degree azimuth thrusters and the centerline propeller with a fixed shaft, will minimize the acoustic impact of the vessel, fulfilling the ICES guideline 209 to keep the acoustic impact on the underwater world as low as possible.
The generators of the integrated hybrid electric propulsion system are designed to operate particularly quietly. The "Polarstern 2" will also have a battery system for energy storage, allowing the ship to operate emissions-free for up to four hours without generators. Emission outputs will be minimized through an exhaust gas filter system and a catalyst for exhaust gas treatment.
The "Polarstern 2" is scheduled to accommodate around 60 researchers and 50 crew members. The propulsion system will be built and implemented by ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), Wärtsilä, Steerprop, and Aker Arctic, with technical consulting from Aker Arctic.
The companies involved in building and implementing the hybrid electric propulsion system for the research vessel "Polarstern 2" are not specified in the available search results. However, it is clear that the "Polarstern 2" is set to redefine Arctic exploration, combining cutting-edge technology with a commitment to environmental sustainability.
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