Valmet DNA in the new generation double-ended ferry

STX Finland Oy has three shipyards in Finland: Turku Shipyard, Rauma Shipyard and Arctech Helsinki Oy. Now, STX Finland Oy and Finferries have agreed to construct a double-ended ferry for the archipelago in Turku. The ship is 65 meters long and 12.8 meters wide, and ready for traffic at the beginning of 2013.

The traditional keel-laying ceremony was held in April 2012 in Rauma. Representatives from Finferries, STX Finland and the Bureau Veritas classification society participated in the event. Mats Rosin, Managing Director of Finferries states: “It has been a pleasure to note that a Finnish partner was an excellent choice. We believe that both crew and passengers will appreciate the enhanced qualities of the new vessel.”

First vessel with new generation safety level

In sea traffic, safety is priority number one. Also with this project, special attention has been paid to the safety of the vessel. For example, the vessel will be constructed according to the safety regulations defined by the EU shipbuilding directive. It will be the first vessel to reach the new generation safety level, among others that impact air emissions, underwater sound emissions, and the impact of sound on wildlife and humans.

To improve the efficiency of the boat traffic, the docking time will be minimized by using wide bow and stern ramps. The boat will be designed to be a double-ended vessel, which means it can operate in both directions. In addition, three floating link spans will be built to drive the cars into the vessel. The ferry is designed to accommodate 250 passengers, three tandem trucks and 39 cars. Also passenger compartments will be available complete with services to increase passenger comfort during the voyage.

Cutting-edge technology

Toivo Ilvonen, Director of STX Rauma Shipyard, explains that the project is significant for the shipyard because of the impact on employment in the current underload situation. The project has advanced as planned. “The ferry represents cutting-edge technology in its field. It will be launched in the water in June and delivered to the customer at the end of 2012,” states Ilvonen.

The Valmet DNA automation solution for the ferry represents the state-of-the-art technology, too. Multifunctional operator stations give an excellent overview and easy access to controlled and monitored systems as well the Information Management System. The system redundancy concept ensures undisturbed operation.  Valmet DNA will reliably control the vessel’s machinery systems and electric power production plant. One interesting feature is the wireless alarm interface to mobile phones, which remarkably enhances the communication on the ferry.

Valmet’s Power Management System (PMS) takes care of eight diesel generators. It controls the engines, and manages how the load is shared. Being integrated to the automation system, it ensures efficient control both operationally and cost-wise. The redundancy concept contributes to the safety of the ferry, explains Valmet’s Per Syvertsen, Manager, Sales Support.

The Information Management System on the ship can be used for analyzing the history data, alarms, events, and other similar functions. Tracing the background of the operations can help to enhance the process operation.

Unique route through the archipelago

The ferry operates on the route between Korpo and Houtskär, Finland, in a beautiful archipelago environment that belongs to the so-called Archipelago Route. It is used by local people but also by tourists especially during the summer time. The entire route passes through many municipalities, and is a total of 200 kilometers long. Eight ferries are in traffic, and one of those will be the new double-ended ferry in 2013. Altogether, there are more than 20,000 islands in the Finnish Archipelago.

During the winter time, the waterway offers challenging ice conditions. This as well as the length of the route will set special requirements on the performance of the vessel. Also, the automation solution has to be reliable even in such harsh conditions.

For more information:

Per Syvertsen, per.syvertsen at valmet.com