Damen unveils electric dredger
With electric motors powering the dredge system, the ECSD 650 enables zero emissions dredging projects (Source: Damen)
A new design for an electric cutter suction dredger (ECSD) has been launched by Damen Shipyards Group.
The ECSD 650 has been adapted from the conventional CSD 650 which is powered by diesel engines. The CSD 650’s modular design has enabled Damen to swap the diesel motors of the conventional dredger with electric units, without re-engineering. The electric design, which can also be separated for transportation and re-assembly in other locations, uses the stern starboard pontoon as a low-voltage electrical nerve centre. In the conventional design, the pontoon is simply a buoyancy aid. The dredger’s electric power system is easy to use and maintain, requires no special training, and generates less noise and vibration.
The electric dredger represents the latest move in Damen’s so-called E3 initiative – environmentally friendly, efficient in operation and economically viable. The company’s other electrification projects include seven ferries of 2306 E3 design for the city of Copenhagen and two road ferries, one 6819 E3 unit and one 9819 E3 design – for operation in Ontario, Canada. The two vessels will be the first fully electric ferries in North America.
