Wärtsilä to Power Thun Tankers’ New Ships

Finnish technology group Wärtsilä has been contracted to supply the engines, propellers, and fuel supply systems for four new tanker vessels being built for Sweden-based Erik Thun AB.

The ships, which will run on both liquefied natural gas (LNG) and diesel, are under construction at the Scheepswerf Ferus Smit yard in the Netherlands. Wärtsilä said that its order was booked in the first quarter of 2017.

The 115-metre-long coastal tankers feature a ‘next generation’ design focusing on high energy efficiency, low noise levels both above and below the water, and environmental sustainability. The Wärtsilä solutions were selected “primarily because they meet all these criteria,” according to the company.

The full scope of supply for each of the four vessels includes a 6-cylinder Wärtsilä 34DF dual-fuel main engine, a Wärtsilä LNGPac fuel supply system, a Wärtsilä Gas Valve Unit (GVU), and a Controllable Pitch Propeller (CPP) with HP nozzle. The equipment will be delivered to the yard commencing in 2018.

“The fuel efficiency of the Wärtsilä 34DF engine, whether in gas or diesel mode, was a prime consideration in its selection for these ‘next generation’ tankers,” Aaron Bresnahan, Vice President, Sales, Wärtsilä Marine Solutions, said.

When delivered, the ice-class 1A vessels will be capable of handling the year round sailing conditions in the Baltic Sea.