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A new anchor handling tug supply (AHTS) vessel design is being launched by Wärtsilä at this year's Sea Asia exhibition held in Singapore from April 21 to 23. The focus of the new design is on simplicity, efficiency, low fuel consumption, and a reduced environmental impact.

The equipment solutions are designed for medium to large size AHTS vessels, where one of the key components is a two-speed gearbox system selected to meet the design targets of reduced costs and less complexity without compromising operational safety. Wärtsilä estimates that the new design provides "a reduction of 20 to 25 percent in fuel consumption compared to conventional diesel mechanical four engine solutions", with exhaust emissions reduced accordingly.

The hybrid two-speed gearbox PTI (Power Take In) solution is designed to ensure a seamless transfer from one operational mode to another, with the ability to work efficiently in all operational modes. When changing propeller speeds, the arrangement is said to produce no loss in PTO (Power Take Off) power. Also, crew requirements need not change to operate vessels featuring the new Wärtsilä design as no special electrical skills are necessary, Wärtsilä says.

The new Wärtsilä series of AHTS designs features Bollard Pull options of 180 tonnes, with options for 150 or 220 tonnes, and a hybrid propulsion system with a two-speed gearbox. They are said to be fully compliant with ABS and the latest SOLAS regulations.

"Wärtsilä has an impressive track record and extensive experience in producing efficient AHTS designs, all of which are based on proven technology and the utilisation of high quality equipment. As a result, our ship designs consistently set new standards in terms of efficiency and environmental sustainability. Our unique expertise, knowledge, and global support are the keys to maximizing the profits and asset values of our customers," said Riku-Pekka Hägg, Vice President, Wärtsilä Ship Design, in a statement.

"Wärtsilä has more than 50 years of experience in ship design. The company's global capability combines sophisticated European ship design with an Asian cost saving structure. The result is a new generation of ships that deliver high performance plus significant fuel and cost savings," the Finnish firm added.

Sea Asia is Asia's premier maritime exhibition and conference and is being held in Singapore from April 21 to 23. Wärtsilä's new AHTS design features at the company's stand in hall B2, booth D01.