API technology for Russian newbuildings
The ultrasonic liquid level switch which forms part of API’s cargo control system
API Marine, based in Aalborg, Denmark, has signed contracts with two Russian shipyards JSC Zavod Krasnoe Sormovo and JSC Okskaya Sudoverf for supply of full cargo control, alarm and automation system for a total of 31 newbuildings.
The new ships are two series of RST27 river-sea tankers, developed to the Russian Maritime Register of Shipping class requirements. Of 6,980dwt, the vessels are designed for transportation of crude oil and petroleum products, providing simultaneous transportation of two types of cargo. The scope of supply from API Marine includes, in addition to the full integrated cargo control system, MasterLoad cargo planning and loading computer systems. Equipment delivery extends until the end of 2013 with the first delivery in October, 2011.
API says its strong position in the Russian market, combined with its in-house technology, and logistics, service and support offerings, has placed it among the key suppliers to the fast-growing market for river-sea tankers, ensured by continued development of the rivers connecting the Baltic, Black and Caspian sea areas. These contracts add to those for integrated API control, alarm and automation systems for river-sea tankers under construction in Russia and Turkey.
API says that to exploit a tanker’s full capacity, it is important to ensure the loading and unloading of cargo is carried out in a fast and reliable way, filling the vessel’s tanks to the maximum while at the same time preventing spills. The company claims the API TSS/cargo system is able to accomplish fast and reliable handling, as well as safe storage. It calculates mass and volume of all types of liquid cargo, based on information from sensors placed in the cargo and ballast tanks, manifolds and from draught positions. Data from the sensors are transmitted to a computer running API MasterLOAD software. This programme is developed for on-board operations and can be used online with the sensors as well as off-line for cargo planning.
The system meets IMO and US Coast Guard requirements for oil tankers which include weight calculations of stored and released oil products with necessary precision.
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