Auramarine has signed a complete methanol fuel system supply contract for two new research vessels, Wega and Deneb, with Astilleros Gondán S.A. (GONDAN Shipbuilders). These vessels are being built in Spain for the Bundesamt für Seeschifffahrt und Hydrographie (BSH), which is responsible for maritime safety and hydrographic surveying in Germany.
Project Details and Delivery Schedule
Auramarine is set to deliver the methanol fuel systems between November 2027 and February 2029. These vessels are part of the German government's program to modernize the research fleet and ensure continuous operations in the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. The design of these vessels has been carried out by Seaplace Engineering, and each vessel is approximately 70 meters long and 15 meters wide.
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Features of Methanol Fuel Systems
The Wega and Deneb vessels are designed to operate with green methanol and will be equipped with the Blue Angel environmental certification and Silent-R requirements for underwater noise reduction. Research operations in harsh marine environments depend on reliable and sustainable onboard systems, and providing sustainable fuel is crucial for the continued operation of the vessels at sea.
Auramarine's complete methanol fuel supply system is designed to ensure safe loading, transfer, management, and supply of methanol on board. This system includes integrated control and monitoring systems and an emergency shutdown system to ensure safe and reliable operation. Auramarine will design each system according to the specific requirements of the vessel and its engine configuration, and delivery will include testing, sea trials, and commissioning.
Auramarine's CEO, John Bergman, stated, "Methanol has found its place in the marine fuel mix, and more types of vessels are now being designed to operate with it. Wega and Deneb are excellent examples of this. We are pleased to be part of this challenging project where our systems will operate in a demanding marine research environment."
Ivan Artim, GONDAN's factory manager, remarked, "Building Wega and Deneb is an exciting challenge that brings together innovative design, advanced technology, and ambitious sustainability goals. We are fully committed to the successful delivery of these vessels through careful planning and close coordination with our partners, paying close attention to detail throughout the entire construction process. We take pride in contributing to a project that supports the future of marine research in an environmentally responsible manner."
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