Power electronics and semiconductors are a key element to having the flexibility to use different energy sources, different energy storages and different energy loads – and you can get all of this with a converter system.
A good, controlled converter system gives you an efficient energy flow with low losses and flexibility with connections, sources and energy storages to enable the vessel to meet requirements and regulations while saving money. At the same time, you can be prepared for the unexpected.
The Switch DC-Hub provides the marine industry with a smart solution for a multi-megawatt DC power system, enabling increased fuel and cost savings, as well as unmatched reliability within vessels. The solution is comprised of power generation, energy storage, charging, propulsion power and clean power. How?
The Switch DC-Hub is made up of several independent single drive units. These are in effect frequency converters, which can be installed on board as either a retrofit or as an original design. The frequency converters are connected to a common DC link, with each being assigned a separate load or source function. This means that one can carry the DC voltage, and another can run different connected loads. Batteries can also serve in source or load mode depending on whether the system is using the batteries or charging them. The DC-Hub ensures that the change between different modes is seamless and without needing any additional actions from the crew.
The versatile possibilities and the immense fuel and cost savings of The Switch DC-Hub make it an attractive choice for any vessel’s power distribution.
The Switch DC-Hub is a smart solution for a multi-megawatt DC power system.
Numerous benefits create smooth sailing
The Switch DC-Hub creates unprecedented benefits for vessels, especially with the tightening emissions regulations. With the solution, dual-fuel vessels can cut down fuel consumption and emissions through peak shaving by stabilizing the loads in rough seas. It is also possible to run on only one genset and batteries, further slashing fuel consumption and emissions. To take things further, ships that sail in emission-regulated harbors can sail on only batteries for a period of time, until they’re far out at sea, and only then start their engines.
Another benefit for shipowners is cost savings, both in initial system installment and in the long run. By not having to install a handful of auxiliary equipment, like transformers and AC switchboards, and also through the reduced fuel consumption, onboard space and money are saved. The lengthened maintenance intervals on rotating equipment made possible by peak shaving also reduce long-term costs.
The solution also creates longevity and allows for future-flexibility in vessels because virtually any power source can be connected to the system. This means that in the future, as new power sources become more efficient and more commonly used, they too can be connected to The Switch DC-Hub and enjoy its benefits.
DC-Hub design and possibilities
The DC-Hub consists of inverters, which feed or drain the DC link based on demand and available power. Any type of electrical energy source, including permanent magnet generators, solar panels, fuel cells, batteries, induction generators and synchronous generators, can be connected. Also, when connected to the DC-Hub, batteries can be utilized as stand-by or active power sources. This enables silent operations and cuts down emissions. Furthermore, connector charging as well as wireless charging and also hotel load supply are made easier than ever before with The Switch DC-Hub.
Safe redundancy with the Electronic Bus Link
We have entered the DP3 market for a pure DC distribution system, which means we will fulfill the highest redundancy requirements.
Pairing The Switch DC-Hub with our unique Electronic Bus Link (EBL) allows each unit to work independently. This piece ultra-rapidly, in only 10 microseconds, cuts and isolates any possible error in the system, creating safe redundancy for the vessel.
Are you ready for the future? We are!
The Switch DC-Hub provides a vessel with a flexible choice of power generation, energy storage, charging, propulsion power and clean power.