ABB has secured a significant order from Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) to equip 15 liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers with its advanced permanent magnet shaft generator technology. These 174,000 cubic meter capacity ships, set for delivery between mid-2026 and August 2028, will serve the supply chain needs of Qatar Energy. This contract represents SHI’s largest fleet project involving this technology and marks a major milestone in the shipping industry’s move towards greater fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
Enhancing Operational Efficiency
ABB’s permanent magnet shaft generator technology is designed to enhance the operational efficiency of vessels by utilizing power from the shaft and main engine. This approach results in better fuel economy compared to relying on high-speed, fuel-intensive auxiliary engines. The technology is optimized for converter control, offering superior efficiency over induction or electrically excited synchronous machines at both full and partial loads. According to ABB, this can reduce ship fuel costs by up to 4%.
The integration of ABB’s advanced ACS880 Converter and Control System with a D/C Link further boosts fuel efficiency by an additional one percent. This system not only improves fuel economy but also aligns with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) decarbonization targets, contributing to the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI), the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI), and the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) of ships.
Reducing Emissions and Meeting Environmental Regulations
The adoption of ABB’s permanent magnet shaft generator technology is a significant step towards reducing emissions in the maritime industry. By enhancing energy efficiency and reducing fuel consumption, this technology helps ship operators meet stringent environmental regulations. The system’s ability to integrate power, control, and automation across multiple ship functions further enhances its environmental benefits.
Michael Christensen, Global Segment Responsible for Cargo at ABB Marine & Ports, emphasized the importance of this order. He noted that the scale of the contract indicates a growing recognition of the benefits of permanent magnet shaft generator systems among key LNG stakeholders. This technology, already widely accepted in the container ship, oil tanker, and bulk carrier markets, is now making significant inroads in the LNG sector.
Strengthening ABB’s Position in the Maritime Industry
This contract not only strengthens ABB’s position in the cargo segment but also underscores its commitment to helping the shipping industry enhance fuel efficiency, reduce costs, and comply with environmental regulations. The collaboration with Samsung Heavy Industries and Qatar Energy is expected to set a new standard for operational efficiency and environmental performance in the LNG carrier market.
The successful implementation of this technology will likely encourage other ship operators to adopt similar solutions, further driving the industry’s transition towards more sustainable practices. As the maritime sector continues to evolve, ABB’s innovative solutions will play a crucial role in shaping its future.
