The Rhenus Group is garnering attention with a pioneering approach to sustainable naval practices. In a recent announcement, the company revealed that it has retrofitted modern stage V engines into two canal pushboats operated by Deutsche Binnenreederei.
Updating Vintage Vessels with Modern Technology
Undoubtedly, the transition towards the development of sustainable, hydrogen-powered vessels is an ongoing journey. In the meantime, The Rhenus Group has focused on revamping its older vessels, transforming them with modern and environmentally friendly technologies. Debuting this process are two push boats, RSPSB146 and RSPSB153, launched originally in 1978 and 1979 respectively. It took approximately ten months for the conversion of these vessels to ensue.
Replacing the erstwhile engines with contemporary diesel generators designed by SCANIA and Caterpillar is part of the retrofit agenda. These truck engines, certified for use in inland waterway vessels, ensure a decrease in environmental damage by instituting stage 5 exhaust gas treatment.
This innovation means that harmful environmental effluents are confined and prevented from escaping into the atmosphere. Consequently, the release of pollutant particulate matter has seen an impressive reduction of up to 40%.
Benefitting from Power-Packed Performance
The new engines pack power with a rating of 740 kW, tripling the performance of the previous units, and the engine room underwent a complete overhaul to accommodate these larger engines. Outdated pumps, electronic equipment, and subassemblies were replaced with advanced electronics and a modern control cabinet.
The newly-installed engine, housed in a ‘Silence Pack’ enclosure, prioritizes a peaceful work environment for crews through reduced noise emissions. Additional enhancements included a new power train with thrust bearings and updated shaft seals and rudder hydraulics.
Navigating Towards a Future-Proof Fleet
Thomas Kaulbach, the Managing Director of Rhenus PartnerShip, shared his perspective, “Most of the vessels operated by German inland waterway companies are between 30 and 50 years old. Simply scrapping them isn’t a viable solution, especially given how conveniently they can be retrofitted. Hence, we are investing in this upgrade program entitled ‘German inland waterway shipping – evolving for the future.'”
Importantly, earlier this year, Rhenus unveiled the initial flagships of a green fleet intended to champion sustainable inland waterway shipping. These push-barge combinations employ a hydrogen-powered drive train and electric batteries, providing noteworthy reliance even against strong currents.
As they continue to expand their fleet, Rhenus, in collaboration with Arkon Shipping, is designing new vessels to accommodate coastal shipping needs. Clearly, the future is looking greener for the shipping industry, with Rhenus Group paving the way.
