Hybrid Systems for Workboats, Pilot Boats, Patrol Vessels and Passenger Vessels
The marine industry now recognises the potential of utilising hybrid power and innovative propulsion systems on vessels under 24 metres. Certain maritime sectors are potentially well suited to hybrid systems. These include ferries, workboats and pilot boats that have relatively consistent duty cycles. When studying work cycles of vessels it is relatively straightforward to make a decision for new builds on whether to go for all electric or a diesel / electric hybrid system. There is an opportunity to consider ‘hybrid refits’ of vessels as their roles change or as ports and government departments demand lower emission vessels to comply with international regulations and COP21 emissions agreements.
For military applications hybrid systems, including diesel / battery / electric, will give patrol vessels the ability to turn off main engines then loiter silently on station at sea with a low heat signature. Patrol vessels will still use their main engines to move rapidly from point to point, once in position a vessel can patrol slowly on battery / electric power. This will be particularly relevant to vessels undertaking port or estuary patrols at low speeds. Not all vessels are suitable for hybridization. It is import to use a consistent process that identifies which sectors may be first adopters and which duty cycles is hybrid most relevant for.
Simon Churchill - Mainstay Marine Solutions
Simon worked in the Royal Navy on Helicopter Radio & Radio Navigation Aids until 1990.
After leaving the Royal Navy he entered the marine electrical industry, working primarily on small commercial and leisure sector craft electrical and electronic systems. He has worked freelance and also for GC Marine Electrical, Marconi, Mustang Marine and currently for Mainstay Marine Solutions. Since 1990 he has designed, installed and commissioned a large number of bespoke electrical and electronic systems as both re-designed refits and new builds.
His experience includes all aspects of electrical, control, navigation and communication systems on professional sector and leisure craft - generally under 24 metre. Subject matter expertise encompasses all major navigation and communication systems, including GMDSS installations on deep sea commercial ships. He has spent time as UK Radio Surveyor for Marconi on behalf of MCA and Classification Societies. He is also on the committee of BMEEA - British Marine Electrical and Electronic Association.
As Senior Electrical Design Engineer for Mainstay Marine Solutions, Simon is responsible for all electrical and electronic systems design - including taking hybrid power and propulson concepts from design to application.
Download NEXT GEN Workshops October 2016 Presentation (password required)
NEXT GEN Workshops PRESENTATION: Mel Lewis
Hybrid Systems for Workboats, Pilot Boats, Patrol and Passenger Vessels