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The design and technical features of Finland's newest icebreaker, Polaris, were presented on Monday, June 6, in Helsinki as part of the CIMAC World Congress.

The Polaris is described by engine manufacturer Wartsila as being the most environmentally friendly diesel-electric icebreaker ever built. It uses both low sulphur diesel and liquefied natural gas (LNG) as fuel, which reduces its emissions. The special hull form and propulsion arrangement are designed to minimize ice resistance and maximize the icebreaking capacity of the vessel.

The main purpose of Polaris is icebreaking and assisting of other vessels in ice conditions in the Baltic Sea. It is also able to perform oil spill response operations, emergency towing and rescue operations at open sea all year round.

Finland's newest icebreaker Polaris is scheduled to enter into service next year, when Finland celebrates its 100 years as an independent nation.

"The theme for Finland's big year, 'Together', is also an appropriate term to describe the design and building process of the new icebreaker. Polaris is the result of combined efforts by Finns and world-famous Finnish knowhow in designing, building and operating icebreakers," Wartsila said in a statement.

Polaris will be powered by Wartsila's dual-fuel engines capable of operating on both LNG and low sulphur diesel fuel. According to Wartsila, its track record in dual-fuel engine technology and the power output per cylinder of the Wartsila engines were key factors in the award of the contract.

Wartsila's scope of supply consists of one 8-cylinder Wartsila 20DF, two 9-cylinder Wartsila 34DF [pictured], and two 12-cylinder Wartsila 34DF engine. Additionally Wartsila has 5 years maintenance agreement for all engines & generators including spare parts, remote online support, CBM monitoring & training services.

The new icebreaker's design and technical features were presented to media attending the CIMAC World Congress in Helsinki by experts from ABB, Arctech, the Finnish Transport Agency, Aker Arctic, Arctia, Wartsila, ILS and Lamor.

Image: The Wartsila 30DF engine.