Wärtsilä is launching a new LNG Bunkering & Supply System simulator to promote greater safety on LNG fuelled vessels by improving the level of training for operators of related equipment on board.
The design is based on the company’s LNGPac and Gas Valve Unit (GVU) technologies, and simulates all auxiliary systems used in connection with the fuel supply. The set-up has been designed to meet STCW requirements for training of seafarers onboard gas fuelled ships to standards demanded by the IGF Code – the international code of safety.
The scope of simulation includes all operations related to the use of LNG fuel, from bunkering to gas fuel supply and engine operations, as well as troubleshooting. It provides training on the user interface for remote and local operating posts, as well as animated 3D visualisations for situational awareness training.
A prepared set of scenarios for tutorials and assessments is available with the simulator as an additional option, Wärtsilä says.
“As the move towards LNG fuel gathers pace in the marine industry, it is essential that crews are thoroughly and expertly trained on handling the related systems,” added Sergey Tarasov, Solutions Manager, Wärtsilä Voyage Solutions.
“This new simulator is designed to raise training levels on LNG bunkering and supply systems, and will therefore also raise onboard safety levels.”
Early installations of the simulator have already been carried out at maritime academies and consulting facilities in Italy, Malaysia and Finland, though Wärtsilä notes that the equipment can also be utilised for in-house training by ship owners and ship management companies.