One of our Clients realised that they had excess electrical power obtainable which was not being effectively utilized. They felt that the surplus if used effectively would help reduce the operational cost being incurred by them.

The Client evaluated the ways this surplus electrical power could be used and concluded that the two prime movers that were driving the dredger pumps and which were running on the diesel fuel could be replaced with electrical motors and this way the surplus electrical power available could be put to use. Considering the capacity of engines was 298 Kw, the saving would be significant. This would also give them the advantage of low maintenance associated with electrical motor.

The Client engaged Vedam to carry out the feasibility check.

Vedam did as asked and proactively checked feasibility with regards to the following aspects as well.

• Spatial feasibility
• Technical feasibility such as availability of major parts and components etc.
• Calculated power requirements to meet operational need for with newly installed motor
• Systems effected due to this change.
• Access plan and structural modifications required

Vedam initiated the study by deploying two engineers on site to carryout survey and assembling input drawings and dimensions from vessel.

It followed through dimensional check of the spaces available to install motor in lieu of two Diesel engines.

Vedam also checked the impact on gears and coupling and made recommendation. The electrical power calculations were done to ascertain that surplus power was able to meet requirement of motor. Finally a plan was created that included recommendations for the structural changes required and access plan preparation.

A report comprising of all supportive drawings and data was submitted to Client concluding positively that Client’s plan was implementable.

Encouraged by the detailed and proactive work done, the Client has further engaged us to do the detail engineering with class approval of the plans as well. Kudos to Team Vedam