Kongsberg Maritime’s AutoChief 600 propulsion control system, with its new ‘GoGreen function, has been retrofitted aboard a VLCC (Very Large Crude Carrier) during an extensive refit of the vessel’s 21-year-old Main Engine and Remote Control System.
The AutoChief 600 system can manage all control, safety and alarm functions necessary for operating the main engine and all other accessories for propulsion control from a single station on the bridge. Main variables such as RPM, pitch, start air and scavenging air pressure, and engine state can be accessed via an advanced Touch Screen Computer.
KONGSBERG say that the AutoChief 600 introduces significant opportunities to optimise engine efficiency and reduce the vessel’s environmental footprint thanks to the unique ‘GoGreen’ module. This advanced new system Integrates the AutoChief 600 with the vessel energy management system and navigation system enabling it to automatically regulate the Main Engine according to best practice and to optimise fuel consumption.
When activating the new ‘GoGreen’ function, the AutoChief 600 automatically determines the optimal RPM command to be given to the Main Engine Governor. The signal is based upon calculations made from the ship and engine characteristics, and the predicted weather situation.
The ‘GoGreen’ software, automatically performs system checks and ensures that all engine and navigation safety parameters are fulfilled, and provides a visible ‘OK’ for a ‘GoGreen’ sea voyage. It is suitable for all engine types.
As an alternative to the ‘GoGreen’ module, the AutoChief 600 Constant Power Mode ensures that main engine power output stays constant, in order to support lower fuel consumption. The system, which is currently available for MAN B&W MC-C, ME-C and ME-B engines, allows RPM to vary while keeping shaft power constant. The AutoChief 600 Constant Power function is designed to be simple to use and features a Power Mode switch and a RPM Mode switch, with mode indication LEDs to show when it is active.
KONGSBERG installed its first AutoChief system in 1967 and almost 50 years later, more than 10,000 systems have been delivered to the world merchant fleet. The latest AutoChief technology forms the platform for diverse refit solutions for most low speed, two-stroke engines and includes fuel actuators, engine safety systems, and governor systems.
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