Finnish ice-going research vessel gets a machinery make-over

Although conventional shafting will be retained, the SPJ 132 RD with an input power of 400 kW will fit flush to the 28-year-old vessel’s hull and provide maximum thrust at every angle, with no resistance, even in shallow water.
However, resilient mountings ensure that the SPJ is completely isolated from the hull, thereby eliminating the risk of high-frequency excitations which can interfere with seismic operations. The SPJ will provide dynamic positioning to an accuracy of 0.5m, as well as propulsion assistance.
The machinery upgrade aboard the 59.3m-long Aranda is being carried out at Rauma Marine Constructions. The vessel, owned by the Finnish Environmental Institute, undertakes year-round research and surveying projects.