Fuel efficient and reliable solutions with DFDE vessels
DFDE propulsion is a relatively new technology for LNG carriers. Utilising electrical generators to drive the propeller, DFDE vessels are more fuel efficient and have lower carbon emissions compared to the conventional steam propelled vessels. The DFDE vessels are equipped with 4 electric engines which provides a high redundancy in case of breakdowns. This gives our customers a more reliable, cost effective and environmentally friendly shipping solution. Maersk LNG is proud to be one of the first operators to operate these high specification vessels.
Customisable and innovative solutions
Maersk LNG utilises an in-house technological department, Maersk Maritime Technology, to oversee the newbuildings from design to delivery. We work closely with our customers to ensure that the vessels are built to meet the expectations. Our dedicated technological team is also committed to looking for new solutions to improve the operational performance of our vessels and by doing so, passing on the benefits of a more efficient vessel to our customers.
Economies of scale
The fleet is broadly categorised into two classes (steam propulsion and dual fuel diesel electric propulsion). Maersk LNG has 6 identical sister DFDE vessels and can thus reap the economies of scale by having a fleet of vessels with similar requirements. An example is the pooling of depot spares that can be used across the fleet. This approach lowers the cost of spares for each vessel and translates into a more cost effective proposal for our customers.
DFDE vessels
Maersk LNG is one of the first operators of DFDE vessels. With 4 DFDE vessels currently in operation and 2 more to be delivered in 2010, we have gained much experience in optimising the operation of the DFDE engine to achieve better performance in terms of fuel efficiency and boil off management.
Steam propelled vessels
Maersk LNG currently operates two steam propelled vessels which are both on long-term charter. Delivered in 2004 and 2006, these vessels have proven to provide a highly satisfactory performance to our customers.