TWIN X-STERN®
Following the trails of the X-BOW® and the X-STERN®, the TWIN X-STERN® is yet another innovative design for improved operability and fuel efficiency. This design has many characteristics, but what makes it stand out from the crowd lies somewhere below the waterline.
TWIN X-STERN explained
We challenged Ulstein's Chief Designer to explain the TWIN X-STERN as simply as possible. No fluffy words or incomprehensible technical jargon. Easy does it. This is his response.
The TWIN X-STERN - what is it?
It's a 'win-wind' situation
As a shipowner or operator, there is a need to think about the lowest possible life cycle cost in the fleet. Cost-effectiveness related to fuel consumption has always been a concern for the shipowner, but there is also a growing concern with respect to the environmental consequences. The commitment to achieve zero-emission marine operations by 2050 sets a new standard. Older vessels need to be upgraded and new vessels need to be designed with a more sustainable approach in mind.
Being able to deliver on emission goals is becoming a larger criterion when contracts for wind farm operations are tendered. The TWIN X-STERN might be the competitive edge you need as an operator to win market shares in the offshore wind industry and take a sustainable responsibility. It's a 'win-wind' situation.
How to get a competitive edge
Standards and demands for efficiency, safety and green responsibility are changing, and marine operations are becoming more and more complex. Keeping pace under such conditions can be demanding.
The TWIN X-STERN has several characteristics, but the easiest way to describe it is as a ship with two sterns and main propeller units at each end.
The combination of thrusters and hull design results in lower energy consumption and reduced motions, and therefore, higher operability and comfort.
This concept dramatically improves the manoeuvrability, motions and ability to stay in position. Qualities that make the TWIN X-STERN ideal for wind farm operations. Further, the concept allows for reduced noise, more comfort on board and the potential to save significant amounts of energy in operation.
“Turning the ship to follow the weather is traditionally required up to 50 per cent of the time, depending on the operation being performed,” says Lars Ståle Skoge, Commercial Director at Ulstein Design & Solutions.
"By having excellent performance in either direction, you avoid having to turn the ship to follow weather changes." Lars Ståle Skoge
TWIN X-STERN e-book
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Sustainable innovations
Ulstein has a tradition of innovation. The X-BOW was introduced in 2005, and the X-STERN and TWIN X-STERN in 2015. The first TWIN X-STERN contracts have been signed and will be for the offshore wind segment, but there are several more application areas.
