GE’s Power Conversion business has signed a contract with Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding (DSNS) to provide an energy management and electric propulsion package for the Royal Netherlands Navy’s new Combat Support Ship (CSS).
The electric propulsion technology of GE was selected due to its low noise signature, reliability and cohesion with the Joint Support Ship (HNLMS Karel Doorman).
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GE said in a statement: “One of the customer’s key concerns is underwater radiated noise, meaning strict noise and vibration levels are imposed on the propulsion systems.
“Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) voltage source inverters feed robust, high-torque density induction motors, allowing high-performance through the modern and optimised propulsion system.”
As per the contract, GE will provide the main switchboards for the ship distribution system with two shore connection cubicles, the main electric propulsion system with two shaft lines, and the related power management and remote-control systems.
The Energy Management System of the ship controls the power generation and distribution systems and will ensure that electrical power is available in the ship network.
Once built, new CSS vessel is expected to strengthen the country’s capability at sea.
Delivery of the ship is scheduled for the second quarter of 2024.
The vessel will be around 180m-long and can accommodate a basic crew of 75, along with an additional 85 people on board.
It will also be capable of accommodating two helicopters and 25 containers, which will help it aid longer national and international maritime operations.
In July this year, DSNS selected Rohde & Schwarz (R&S) to install communication systems in the Royal Netherlands Navy’s CSS.
