Wärtsilä unveils integrated hybrid power module for dredgers

Wärtsilä has launched a new dredging technology, Wärtsilä HY for Dredger, based on its hybrid propulsion systems which incorporates power from different sources, including engines and energy storage sytems. An Energy Management System ensures instant load-taking and dynamic power demand and a power distribution arrangement ensures the smooth-running of consumers on board. 
Full integration of the various systems enables smooth and continuous operations in all conditions, the company said, thereby ensuring that engines always run at optimal load. This, in turn, lowers fuel consumption, maintenance costs and emissions – which are zero in full battery mode – and extends turbocharger life.
The company’s director of Sales & Business Intelligence explained: “Real operational data from the field was analysed so as to understand exactly the challenges to be overcome, and the product was engineered accordingly. Through working closely with our customers, we have been able to further develop the HY technology and customise a new integrated product for the dredging market.”
Wärtsilä claims that the technology provides the most advanced energy systems for its dredging customers and offers a potential payback period as short as two years.