Energy saving solution Imtech successful

Rudder Roll Stabilisation system for Republic of Korean Navy

Rotterdam, 5 June 2009

With the recently signed contract for the RRS system on the new FFX frigate program for the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN), Imtech Marine & Offshore proves the added value of the RRS System.The Imtech Rudder Roll Stabilisation System was developed by one of Imtech’s leading Senior Consultants, Dr. Ir. Peter van der Klugt in close cooperation with the Delft University of Technology and the Royal Netherlands Navy. The RRS System consists of both an adaptive autopilot for course/heading keeping and a patented roll stabilising control algorithm for roll reduction. The ROKN plans to deploy a total of nine 2,500-ton class frigates by 2018 and has decided for the shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries to build the first of class ship. The delivery of one ship per year will run from 2010 up to 2018.

The Rudder Roll concept allows for roll reduction of a ship, without the need for separate stabiliser fins. Next to the obvious cost saving on additional fins, the RRS System provides reduction of engine room space, underwater noise and water resistance. The absence of stabiliser fins results in less drag for the ship. Due to this reduction in water resistance, less fuel is required for the propulsion of the ship. Therefore fuel saving is achieved by using the existing rudders instead of adding extra stabiliser fins. RRS is a clear example of Imtech’s energy-saving solutions.

With the first-time introduction of the RRS system on the KDX-III class destroyers, the ROK Navy followed the example of first class Navies such as the German Navy and the Royal Netherlands Navy, which already had taken the RRS on board of their F124-class, M-class, LCF-class frigates and K-130 corvettes. For these Navies the RRS system has been the proven-technology for decades. Applying the RRS system on the new generation of FFX frigates shows the continued satisfaction and commitment of the ROK Navy for this unique Imtech solution.

Profile of Imtech Marine & Offshore
Imtech Marine & Offshore specialises in tailor made innovative solutions (systems and services) in the field of electrical engineering, energy, platform automation and bridge systems and HVAC (heating, ventilation & air conditioning) systems for various maritime and naval customers. Imtech Marine & Offshore employs more than 1000 people. Imtech is involved in several maritime market segments such as dredging, navy ships, cruise-liners, ferries, luxury yachts, offshore supply & construction vessels and other special vessels. Being a total system integrator, Imtech is able to take complete technical responsibility for the electrical and automation systems onboard vessels, both newbuild and retrofit. .

Imtech Marine & Offshore is a member of Imtech Marine Group. The Imtech Marine Group is an independent group of well-established and renowned Imtech companies who have joined forces and cooperate to offer the marine industry a wide range of technical solutions. Imtech Marine Group’s mission is to be the sustainable, reliable, global and technical partner for professionals in the marine industry. The group offers tailor made, innovative solutions (systems and services) in automation, nav/com, HVAC (heating, ventilation & air condition), fire protection, energy and AV entertainment. The Imtech Marine Group includes renowned companies like Imtech Marine Germany (formerly HDW-Hagenuk Schiffstechnik), Imtech Marine & Offshore, Imtech Schiffbau-/Dockbautechnik, Radio Holland Group, Royal Dirkzwager and Van Berge Henegouwen Installaties. With a worldwide network of more than 70 offices along the shiping routes, the Imtech Marine group is able to provide 24-hour service and support on the spot. Imtech Marine Group achieved revenue of appr. Euro 500 mio in 2008.

Source: IMTECH