Finland’s technology group Wärtsilä has received an order to supply a propulsion system for a dual-fuel asphalt carrier built for Canada’s largest bitumen industry dealer McAsphalt 

The vessel, which is being built by Chinese shipbuilding company Wuhu Shipyard, will be equipped with two 20DF dual-fuel engines, as well as the company’s controllable pitch propellers, gearboxes, Energopac rudders, and a transverse thruster. The equipment for the 11,7000 cbm ship is slated for delivery to the yard in December 2022.

“The dual-fuel engines selected emphasise the vessel’s design focus on environmental sustainability, while the Energopac rudder solution is a proven fuel-saving technology for controllable and fixed pitch propeller applications. It features advanced hydrodynamic technology and outstanding vessel manoeuvrability, as well as improved onboard comfort levels compared to conventional propeller and rudder configurations,” the company stated. 

The order for the new vessel was placed in April this year. McAsphalt and Wuhu Shipyard signed a contract for one plus one 12,000dwt/11,700cbm bitumen tanker which are designed by FKAB Marine Design.

The vessel is tailor-made for bitumen heating up to 200°C, while maneuvering in the river and lake waterways.

Further on, this dual-fuel twin-screw controllable pitch propulsion system with shaft generators is said to make high energy efficiency possible for all voyage conditions. It is designed with full battery / UPS power, preventing blackouts, according to the company. 

All emissions onboard are complying with IMO Tier-III to limit the impact on the environment to the minimum.

The vessel will be used to support the company’s asphalt trades in the Great Lakes region in Canada. (Photo: FKAB)