MTU Powers Deepwater National Security Cutter

·         U.S. Coast Guard’s first of class National Security Cutter successfully completes initial sea trials.

DETROIT, JANUARY 30, 2008 – MTU Detroit Diesel, the Propulsion Plant Single Source Vendor contractor for the U.S. Coast Guard Deepwater National Security Cutter (NSC) Program, working together with prime contractor Northrop Grumman Ship Systems has completed the first in a series of trials for the lead ship Bertholf (WMSL 750). The Bertholf is the first of eight planned cutters to be powered by a Combined Diesel and Gas Turbine (CODAG) propulsion plant that was specially designed and integrated for the vessel by MTU.

The CODAG propulsion plant consists of two MTU 20V 1163 TB93 diesel engines each rated at 7,400 kW (9,925 hp) and a single General Electric LM2500 marine gas turbine engine rated at 22,000 kW (29,500 hp). The engines are connected through the CODAG reduction and combining gear system to the dual shaft-lines with controllable reversible pitch propellers. With all three engines working together the total combined output of the plant is 36,800 kW (49,350 hp). The propulsion plant and its auxiliaries are all controlled and monitored by an MTU provided automation system.

“This will be the largest, most technologically advanced high endurance cutter ever to enter U.S. Coast Guard service” said Phil Wasinger, Managing Director for MTU Detroit Diesel’s Washington Office. “The MTU team are proud to have completed a successful sea trial on this advanced propulsion system.”

The 418-foot cutter’s propulsion system when in full CODAG operation allows the ship to achieve speeds in excess of 28 knots and can easily make 18 knots when operating economically in single diesel engine mode. These speeds meet and exceed all of the Coast Guard operational requirements for this new cutter class, while the operating flexibility of the propulsion system allows for exceptional endurance and affords reduced lifecycle cost.

The Bertholf completed the Machinery Trials in December of 2007. Next up are Builder Trials scheduled for mid-February followed by Acceptance Trials in March. The Bertholf is scheduled to be turned over to the Coast Guard soon after Acceptance Trials and will then transit to it’s homeport in Alameda, California.

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