By
Rebecca Gibson |
Wärtsilä has installed its axial waterjets onboard Buquebus’s Francisco, the world’s fastest high-speed ferry, which operates using liquefied natural gas (LNG) fuel.
The two LJX1720SR axial waterjets offer a high level of efficiency, while their compact size enabled them to be installed within the ferry’s transom, saving valuable space.
Wärtsilä has also supplied its Lipstronic 7000 advanced propulsion control system with built-in redundancy features to increase safety. Designed in accordance with International Maritime Organization and classification requirements, the system controls the steering angle, bucket position and impeller speed of the waterjets.
“Wärtsilä is delighted to have continued its long-standing cooperation with Incat in the completion of this vessel, which is truly a milestone delivery within the fast ferry sector,” said Arto Lehtinen, vice president of propulsion at Wärtsilä Ship Power. “Our proven track record, together with the high efficiency and low operating costs of the Wärtsilä waterjet portfolio, were all key reasons for us being awarded this contract.”
Built by Incat Tasmania, the 99 m catamaran recently underwent speed trials in Australia. During a 1516 tonne displacement trial, Francisco achieved a speed of 51.8 knots at 100 per cent maximum continuous rating (MCR), operating with one turbine on LNG fuel and one on marine distillate. The vessel also reached a speed of 58.1 knots at 100 per cent MCR with the water ballast removed and both the port and starboard gas turbines operating on LNG.
“Francisco will be the largest catamaran to be operated by Buquebus, and the fastest, environmentally cleanest, and most efficient high speed ferry in the world,” said Juan Carlos Lopez Mena, president of Buquebus.
The vessel will carry up to 1,000 passengers and 150 vehicles on the River Plate route between Buenos Aires in Argentina and Montevideo in Uruguay.