Stockport, 12 January 2005. The Australian Shipbuilder Tenix Defence has selected MAN B&W’s VP185 and RK280 series engines to power a fleet of Patrol Vessels for the Royal New Zealand Navy’s fleet replacement program, designated Project Protector. The order received by MAN B&W Diesel Australia covers the propulsion diesels, gearboxes, diesel generator sets and the propulsion system integration for all the Patrol Vessels.

Four 55 metre Inshore Patrol Vessels will be constructed by Tenix at its Whangarei Shipyard in New Zealand. Each twin engine vessel is to be powered by the latest version of the MAN B&W 12VP185 engines rated at 2,500 kW and 1,907 rpm. The engines will drive controllable pitch propellers through ZF 7640 NR gearboxes. The IPVs have a range of 3,000 nautical miles and a maximum speed of 25 knots.

Two 85 metre Ice Class Offshore Patrol Vessels will be constructed at Tenix’s Williamstown facility in Australia. They will each be powered by two 12RK280 engines, driving CP propellers through ZF W63000 NRH gearboxes. Each engine has a continuous rating of 5,400 kW at 1,000 rpm. The OPVs have a range of 6,000 nautical miles and a maximum speed of 22 knots.

As well as fully satisfying the technical requirements of the vessels, the selection of the VP185 and RK280 series engines will provide the Royal New Zealand Navy with reduced operating costs and minimise their cost of ownership. Both engines provide extended periods between overhaul and minimised downtime for routine maintenance. Additionally, excellent fuel consumption and reduced lube oil consumption impact positively on the vessels’ in-service capability.

This important order cements the RK series as the engine of choice in the Offshore Patrol Vessel market with its robust design, high efficiency and minimised operating cost. The VP185 series continues to generate significant interest for both mechanical propulsion systems and power generation on a wide variety of naval vessels from high-speed patrol craft to frigates due to its compact size, low weight and low cost of ownership.

Larry Silva, Managing Director of MAN B&W Diesel Australia explains: “The Naval Propulsion market is a key focus for us. MAN B&W’s investment in product improvement and development in its UK operations has enabled it to bring to market engines that achieve class leading performance and are highly suited to naval applications.”

As well as manufacturing diesel engines, MAN B&W offers complete mechanical and diesel electric propulsion and power generation packages. MAN B&W also provides comprehensive maintenance support and ILS packages to naval and commercial customers, enabling the control of through-life and support costs.

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