Vacon has recently signed several major contracts with its Norwegian partner Scandinavian Electric Systems AS (SES) for the supply of ac drives with a total power in the region of 150MW. SES, a leading supplier of electric systems and products to the international marine market, will provide electrification for 16 diesel-electric vessels. A majority of the Vacon AC drives will be used for the control of main propulsion and thrusters. The orders also include a few high-power drives for the control of seismic compressors. Deliveries will be made in 2006 and 2007.
Diesel-electric propulsion is fast becoming more and more popular among shipbuilders. The advantages are obvious: less noise, lower energy consumption and simpler layout. Several ships currently under construction in Europe will be provided with diesel-electric propulsion.
SES has been working with Vacon drives and technology since 1997. All Vacon drives ordered by the company will feature liquid-cooling to cope with the severe and demanding marine conditions that they will be subjected to. Vacon's liquid-cooled drives do not require large fans, so consequently they are very compact.