VFD technology cuts operational costs

HATLAPA says that as fuel prices rise and strict environmental regulations are enforced, the maritime industry is choosing winches with VFD technology over hydraulic drives in a bid to save energy and cut operating costs. This “green” alternative removes energy losses in pump units, control valves and hydraulic motors and, compared to hydraulic or pole changing electric drives, enable vessels to run more efficiently and saves time on mooring operations.

Dr Friedrich Wirz, head of drives and controls design, HATLAPA, said: “Winch operation at very high slack speeds, for example when the line is brought out or hauled in without tension, can save valuable time, allowing lower vessel speed and consequently a significant reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of the propulsion plant.”

HATLAPA will be producing a technical paper on the benefits of VFD which will be available later this year.