A collaboration between BERG Propulsion, shipping and logistics group CMA CGM and ship owner Reederei Rambow has resulted in significant efficiency gains for the 868TEU container vessel Henneke Rambow, with the 2007-built ship rejuvenated to become one of the top performers in its class.
A retrofit project requested by charterer CMA CGM saw BERG work with Rambow on a package of efficiency optimisation measures on board Henneke Rambow. The recommendations followed a performance review by BERG involving an analysis of the vessel’s installed propeller and a data-based scrutiny of its propulsion system.
With Henneke Rambow consistently operating at speeds lower than its original service speed, the DNV class-approved upgrade focused on optimising the propulsion for fuel economy. The owner’s retrofit project also included optimisation of the ship’s bulbous bow for a revised operational matrix.
Existing propeller blades were replaced with profiles that are hydrodynamically optimised for the vessel’s full operational profile. The ship’s control systems were also upgraded to include BERG’s MPC800 propulsion unit with Dynamic Drive. Including a retrofit to the vessel’s four-stroke engine, the integrated solution enables optimal propeller operations at all shaft speeds.
In addition, BERG installed its custom-made Network Frequency Stabiliser (NFS), which allows the shaft generator to operate at variable speeds while continuously providing a stable frequency and voltage to the main switchboard.
Upon the completion of the work, owner Reederei Rambow reported significant gains in Henneke Rambow’s operational efficiency.
