Finland-Based The Switch to Deliver Single Drives for Future-Fit Tankers
Finland-based power electronics specialist The Switch, part of Japan’s BEMAC Corporation, has recently secured a contract to supply single drives for shaft generators on four innovative tankers currently under construction at Xiamen Shipbuilding Industry in China.
The 113,600 dwt Aframax tankers, designed by Shanghai Ship Research and Design Institute (SDARI), are set to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and will feature a dual-fuel propulsion system. Union Maritime (UML), a UK-based shipowner, is expected to take delivery of these vessels in the first half of 2027.
The Switch’s single drives will play a crucial role in managing power output from the ships’ two-stroke engines, ensuring efficient operations, reduced fuel consumption, and lower emissions. The power take-off (PTO) system will be integrated by Swiss marine technology developer WinGD.
Stefan Goranov, Head of Integrated Energy Solutions at WinGD, expressed confidence in The Switch’s technology and their joint ability to deliver sustainable solutions for the maritime industry.
Notably, WinGD was also selected to provide hybrid power and energy systems for four wind-assisted tankers being built by Xiamen Shipbuilding for UML. This collaboration marks a significant step towards incorporating eco-friendly solutions into newbuild vessels.
Union Maritime currently operates a fleet of approximately 64 vessels, predominantly tankers and bulk carriers. With plans to expand its fleet, UML aims to add 47 more vessels by 2028, all in line with its sustainability vision of achieving a ‘completely green’ fleet.