ABB has won an order from Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) to equip 15 LNG carrier vessels with permanent magnet shaft generator technology.
The 174,000m3 capacity ships are due delivery between mid-2026 and August 2028 to various owners serving the supply chain needs of charterer Qatar Energy. The contract is the South Korean yard’s single largest ever order for LNG carriers.
ABB permanent magnet shaft generator technology enhances operational efficiency of vessels by using power from the shaft and main engine, resulting in better fuel economy compared to getting the power from high-speed, fuel-intensive auxiliary engines. In addition, the permanent magnet shaft generator is optimised for converter control, enabling better efficiency than either induction or electrically excited synchronous machines can offer at full and partial load. According to ABB’s estimation, this helps to cut ship fuel costs by up to 4%. Working with ABB’s ACS880 converter and control system with DC Link, the technology can increase fuel efficiency by a further 1%.
Integrating the technology with power, control and automation across multiple ship functions enhances energy efficiency and helps reduce emissions as a result. This aligns with the IMO decarbonisation targets, using measures like the EEDI, EEXI and CII of ships.
Michael Christensen, Global Segment Responsible for Cargo, ABB Marine and Ports said: “The scale of this order suggests that key LNG stakeholders now recognise permanent magnet shaft generator system benefits that are widely accepted by owners in the container ship, oil tanker and bulk carrier markets. The agreement further strengthens our position in the cargo segment and emphasises our commitment to helping the shipping industry enhance fuel efficiency, reduce costs and reduce emissions in line with environmental regulations. We look forward to working with Samsung and Qatar Energy during implementation and beyond.”
Image: ABB shaft generator system (credit: ABB)
