Berg Propulsion - Experts & Thought Leaders

BERG Propulsion has unveiled the OpWind® software system to help crews combine the operation of sails and propellers in the most efficient way in all sea conditions. OpWind OpWind automatically ensures that engine efficiency can be optimised concerning propeller rpm and blade pitch angle when wind propulsion is also used to propel a vessel. The approach saves even more fuel than would otherwise be the case. The system automatically senses any sail contribution to propulsion based on a vessel’s operation data and measured parameters, continuously and automatically adjusting propeller pitch and speed to maximise the efficiency of the combined operation of the propeller and sails. Optimal operating actions "The BERG Propulsion OpWind system has been developed from the Swedish company’s existing Dynamic Drive technology to compare detailed theoretical information and calculations about operating with propellers and sails against measured values on-board the vessel," said Chief Technology Officer - Emil Cerdier. He adds, "OpWind is a more advanced system than Dynamic Drive and can be implemented on any ocean-going vessel fitted with any type of sails to identify optimal operating actions." Maximum speed It is also possible to use the propeller for onboard power generation while in sailing mode "Savings from reduced fuel consumption will depend on the vessel configuration and its operating profile, as well as on how large the sails are, but they will be considerable," continues Emil Cerdier, adding "Efficiency gains will be available whether it is a new building or retrofit project." The system can be run in several modes with settings either to keep a desired maximum speed, maximum fuel consumption, or a constant propeller thrust. It is also possible to use the propeller for onboard power generation while in sailing mode. Marine Information Display BERG can also provide a Marine Information Display to visualise performance, as part of the system. A constant vessel speed setting will automatically reduce engine propulsion power, when sails contribute to forward thrust. With a feathering propeller design, it is also possible to shut down one or two main engines depending on vessel configuration, to further reduce fuel and maintenance costs. BERG Propulsion has received an initial order for systems to be used in sail/engine combined operations from a major vessel operator.

UAE-based shipyard - Mark Marine has saved both time and costs by initiating a collaboration with BERG Propulsion to use BERG Rotordynamics Services.Mark Marine is delivering eight vessels to Rawabi Vallianz Offshore Services, in what shipyard Founder, Hashim Abdul Razak, described as 'one of the largest build projects undertaken in the Middle East'. Customisation steps "This is a milestone project for Mark Marine, which showcases the excellence of our workmanship, our ability to deliver to schedule, and the customisation available to clients," said Mr. Razak, who played a decisive role in selecting complete propulsion solutions from BERG for the offshore service vessels. Capt. Ajit Kumar, General Manager, Mark Marine, said customisation steps during the project had included a request to BERG to deliver supplementary on-site Rotordynamics services. Cost savings and faster installation "During the installation of the first high-value asset in the series, we collaborated closely with BERG at a crucial moment to simplify the shaft alignment calculation process and eliminate any complexities," said Capt. Ajit Kumar. "We also trained our staff to secure the necessary skills to replicate alignment procedures on the remaining vessels," said Abdul Jaleel, Technical Manager, Mark Marine, adding "We expect the impact of BERG Propulsion’s on-site technical expertise to be cost savings and faster installation through the rest of the project." Computer-based shaft alignment Growing complexity in onboard systems and innovations in technology have brought a pressing need Growing complexity in onboard systems and innovations in technology have brought a pressing need for closer collaboration between propulsion solution providers and shipyards, explained Mohamed Zeid, Rotordynamics Global Expert, BERG Propulsion. He adds, "Standardised computer-based shaft alignment analyses, complemented with decades of practical experience at BERG are the basis for superior shaft alignment services on-site. If shaft alignment is not optimised, it presents a risk for the ships in operation."  Time-efficient Mohamed Zeid continues, "Working with yards, we add BERG’s Rotordynamics Services expertise to their experience and knowledge, in a synergy that mitigates risk, avoids premature equipment failure, and extends a ship’s lifecycle. At the same time, we ensure that the installation of the propulsion unit is time-efficient." BERG Rotordynamics Services leans into the firm’s 112-year heritage and specialised knowledge in propulsion systems to solve shaft misalignments affecting ships in operation and offer preventive measures at the new build stage to stop them from arising in the first place. Anomaly identification and resolution Services cover monitoring, detection, and correction across a wide range of vessel types, tracking excessive vibrations and premature parts failure, which can be indicators of shaft misalignment.  They include ‘basic’ anomaly identification and resolution, but also breakdown/failure resolution, and investigation with bespoke solutions for complex problems.

A collaboration between BERG Propulsion, shipping and logistics group CMA CGM and ship owner Reederei Rambow has proved pivotal in significant efficiency gains for an 868 TEU container vessel, with the 2007-built ship rejuvenated as one of the top performers in its class. In an innovative retrofit project requested by charterer CMA CGM, BERG worked with Rambow on a comprehensive package of efficiency optimisation measures onboard Henneke Rambow to match current and anticipated requirements. Recommendations followed a performance review by BERG, analysis of the vessel’s installed propeller and data-based scrutiny of its propulsion system. Propulsion solution for fuel economy With Henneke Rambow consistently operating at speeds lower than its original service speed, the DNV class-approved upgrade focused on optimising the propulsion solution for fuel economy. The owner’s retrofit project also included optimisation of the ship’s bulbous bow for a revised operational matrix. “The Henneke Rambow project is an effective example of collaboration between owners, charterers and systems integrators, working together to optimise ship performance,” commented Mathieu Gubert, VP Chartering CMA CGM. Henneke Rambow’s operational efficiency Upon completion, owner Reederei Rambow said marked gains in Henneke Rambow’s active efficiency According to David Sakandelidze, Account Manager, Energy & Efficiency, BERG Propulsion: “Existing propeller blades were replaced with profiles that are hydrodynamically optimised for the vessel’s full operational profile. The ship’s control systems have also been upgraded to include BERG’s advanced 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 completion, owner Reederei Rambow reported significant gains in Henneke Rambow’s operational efficiency. Partner with CMA CGM Sven Rambow, Rambow Bereederungs GmbH & Co. KG, said: “Following this upgrade, Henneke Rambow is demonstrating a remarkable performance improvement which ensures that this vessel will be one of the most efficient of this type for the decade ahead.” “The vital role smaller container ships play in global logistics can sometimes be overlooked, but in this case, the enhanced performance is extraordinary, with our data indicating that the overall post-project efficiency gains are substantial,” said Magnus Thoren, Account Manager, Energy & Efficiency, BERG Propulsion. “By taking care of the total propulsion solution, Berg has worked as the service and technology partner with CMA CGM as charterer and Rambow as a well-known owner so that a valuable asset remains highly competitive.” Era of carbon intensity monitoring BERG has undertaken a series of retrofits focusing to optimise older ships to ensure that they remain competitive in the era of carbon intensity monitoring and emissions trading. Martin Linder, Sales Manager, Energy & Efficiency, BERG Propulsion, added: “While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, BERG is helping ship owners by assessing potential efficiency improvement options during this transitional period in ship decarbonisation. We look forward to offering the same comprehensive and flexible service across future vessel renewal projects.”