ABB’s new torque monitoring system Torductor Marine has made its commercial debut on Stena Line freight ferry Stena Scotia after a successful trial on the vessel.
Stena has purchased a second torque monitor, for the ferry’s starboard shaft, and has agreed to transform the test installation on the port shaft into a permanent feature. The unit, which features contactless sensors mounted 1.5mm from the propeller shaft, can provide data on engine indicators including propulsion power, specific fuel oil consumption (in combination with fuel flow sensors), shaft revolutions and total energy generated.
The torque monitor demands little maintenance due to the absence of moving parts. It also provides a means to comply with the International Maritime Organization’s energy efficiency requirements, in particular the Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan.
Juha Koskela, managing director, ABB Marine and Ports, said: “The shipping industry is turning to technology to make their fleets more efficient and comply with international regulations. We are leveraging increased ship connectivity and Torductor Marine exemplifies how we are helping ships become more efficient through marine software.”
