Denmark: Sailing Maersk Triple-E in Simulated Environment

The first of the 20 Triple-E ships that were ordered this spring will not hit the waters until late 2013. Still, already now, tests are being made on how the future giants of the sea manoeuvre.

For Captain Gardastovu, his first encounter with a Triple-E container ship did not take place at sea, but in a simulator situated in Lyngby, Denmark. He describes the experience as interesting and exciting, and also very useful — particularly with regards to manoeuvring.

“In this particular project we were able to see if it was at all possible to manoeuvre a vessel of this size with two propellers, one left-handed and one right-handed propeller, two rudders and the two bow thrusters — just to mention some of the things we tested.”

Even though he is used to sailing the Emma Mærsk, the simulator provided some valuable insight as to how the new ships will react and what differences to expect.

“In the simulator you can feel that the Triple-Es are bigger than the E-types, Triple-E will also be much heavier than Emma Maersk, but surprisingly easier to manoeuvre because of the two thrusters, the engine capacity, and the enormous propellers,” says Gardastovu.

According to Captain Gardastovu the simulator can also give you an idea of what it will be like trying to stop a Triple-E.

“When the ship is fully loaded, you’re talking about more than 200,000 tonnes of vessel moving at speed, but the propeller capacity means that it is not a problem. The vessel will be able to stop and change direction in a harbour in just a few metres, and testing at a speed of 12 knots, she can stop in about 550 metres,” he says.

And when the ships hit the water

Having been Master of Emma Mærsk since 2006, Captain Gardastovu is also tempted by the idea of being at the helm of one of the new Triple-E vessels.

“Well, if I’m asked, I will certainly not say no. Of course it’s a big wish, but I think every captain would say the same — everyone would like to be known for being the captain of a Triple-E.”

His enthusiasm about the Triple-E goes beyond the size of the vessels, as some of the technical features of the new ships also make them an interesting acquaintance.

“The bridge on the new vessels will be further forward, the engines are aft and the two propellers make it far more environmentally friendly. With so much more water going through them they have more propulsion and the engine doesn’t need to be so big as a result. The Triple-E will also have a much more enhanced waste heat recovery system, which can save a huge amount of fuel,” says Gardastovu.

The first Triple-E vessels will be delivered in late 2013.

[mappress]

Source: Maersk, October 7, 2011.