Rosneft develops innovations for Russian Zvezda super-shipyard
Commissioned by the Technology Localization Division and together with technology partner General Electric, Sapphire Applied Engineering and Training Centre LLC (subsidiary of Rosneft corporate Research and Development Complex) specialists developed an electric steerable thruster with a capacity of 7.5 MW for reinforced ice-class multi-functional support vessels for the IBSV 10022 project that are being built at Zvezda Shipbuilding Complex, Rosneft says in a press release.
The steerable thruster is the key element of a ship's electro-motional system that influences its performance and manoeuvrability. Specifically, the use of the steerable thruster allows the vessel to turn in her own length without a tow boat, and also increases the ice-breaking capability. It is the first Russian product of this class developed in accordance with the purposes and tasks of the Rosneft-2022 Strategy. Technological development in all areas of the Company's activities is an important element of the Strategy, primarily due to the accelerated replication of its own innovative developments.
The IBSV 10022 project's vessels are designed for an unrestricted navigation and are targeted at delivering cargo to offshore drilling platforms, their icebreaker support, towing vessels and offshore facilities, and participating in rescue operations.
Among the future plans of Sapphire specialists are the development of a steerable thruster with a capacity from 11 to 15 MW for large-capacity vessels and ice-class LNG carriers.
Zvezda Shipyard is established at the Far Eastern Shipbuilding and Ship Repair Center (FESRC) by a consortium led by Rosneft. The shipbuilding complex design provides for the construction of a heavy outfitting berth, a dry dock, full-cycle production shops, and shops for the construction of offshore marine facilities. With the development of Zvezda Shipyard in Russia, a virtually new industry is being created – heavy shipbuilding.
Sapphire Applied Engineering and Training Centre LLC is a joint venture of General Electric and Rosneft Oil Company; its activities are aimed at expanding the scientific and technical cooperation of the companies. Rosneft projects development with the use of GE advanced technologies, including basic technological solutions development, equipment localization, and oil and gas industry specialists training, is the main task of the Centre.
