Alewijnse equips Methathug, the world’s first methanol-fuelled tugboat with a custom automation system
The world's first tug to run on methanol. Port of Antwerp-Bruges has achieved a world premiere with the Methatug, the first ever methanol-fuelled tug, marking an important step in the transition to a climate-neutral port by 2050. For this special project, Alewijnse designed a unique installation for on-board automation.
Pioneering green maritime solutions for methanol-powered vessels
Methanol is widely regarded as one of the fuels of the future. The green fuel can be produced from renewable resources, has low CO2 emissions and can be implemented on both new and existing ships as it is liquid under ambient conditions. The Methatug's engine has been converted to a dual fuel engine, enabling it to run on both methanol and traditional fuel. The 30-metre tug has a bollard pull of 50 tonnes and can carry 12,000 litres of methanol, enough for two weeks of average towing activity.
Reduction in CO2 emissions and fuel use
The tug is now operating successfully in the port, and Alewijnse, together with IDP Shipyards and Port of Antwerp-Bruges, are looking back with satisfaction at the course of the project and the services provided. Mădălin Androne, project manager at Alewijnse, says: “Important factors in the success of the project are our excellent cooperation with all parties, our expertise and our dedicated colleagues who at times worked up to twelve hours a day both on the engineering and installation on board. We are very pleased to be able to contribute to a reduction in CO2 emissions and fuel use and thus be working towards a greener future.”
Unique plc system
In its role for the Methatug, Alewijnse designed a unique programmable logic controller (plc) system with panels to control the flow of methanol liquids towards the engine. “It is a new design for the first tug in the world to run on methanol,” says Mădălin Androne. “We can now apply the principles of the system on board other vessels using methanol as fuel, such as Fugro's research vessel Pioneer, for which Alewijnse was recently commissioned. It is an efficient and safe system, which we have tested extensively with compressed air and water to check the piping, fluids and pressures.”
Experience in hybrid and electric tugs
Alewijnse and Port of Antwerp-Bruges have successfully worked together for many years on the construction of tugs that are part of the international greening programme. Additionally, Alewijnse brings extensive experience with other sustainable tug projects. A recent examples include the RSD 2513 electric tugs and the hybrid fast crew supply vessels FSC2710 for Damen. Alewijnse also contributed to the ASD 2810 hybrid tugs Noordzee, Waddenzee and Zuiderzee, commissioned by Damen and delivered to the Royal Netherlands Navy.
Knowledge centre
Alewijnse offers its expertise in this area its offices in the Netherlands and Vietnam and also from its Galati location, which has now become a knowledge centre. The high quality of service and the excellent cooperation with customers enable projects to be completed in a short time frame while taking into account the important safety measures and relevant laws and regulations.
