This project marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between Alconza, with extensive experience in silent motors, and Wärtsilä
Alconza, renowned manufacturer of electric motors and generators for the shipbuilding industry, participates very actively in a project for a new research vessel requiring silent mode operation, for which Alconza has to draw up very detailed structure-borne noise studies.
It is a project being carried out within the construction of a fishing research vessel, WALTHER HERWIG IV, for the German shipyard Fassmer, a leader in the field of environmental sustainability. This project has already become a significant milestone in the close collaboration between Alconza and the Wärtsilä group, as it underlines Alconza’s ability to deliver advanced technological solutions in the marine sector. In addition, it reinforces Alconza’s position as a pioneer in technological innovation, and also highlights its commitment to excellence and ecological sustainability in ship propulsion.
This project entails building one of the most advanced fishing research vessels in the world, which will be delivered to the German shipyard in mid-2027. With their notable experience in the manufacture of electric motors and generators, Alconza will supply generators for the power plant a motor for a pumpjet and the main propulsion motor, requiring silent technology.
Silent Propulsion for Research
The propulsion motor supplied by Alconza is notably silent, a crucial characteristic for a research vessel that requires submarine noise to be minimised so as not to interfere with precision instruments or marine life. The silent motor technology by Alconza, which is capable of meeting the strict SILENT-R classification by DNV GL, ensures low estructure-borne noise and therefore accurate, reliable scientific data.
This fishing research vessel has a diesel-electric propulsion system that can be adapted to use methanol, a carbon-neutral fuel. This innovation not only promotes environmental sustainability, but also enables the vessel to surpass the strictest environmental standards, such as the ‘Blauer Engel’ and the US EPA TIER IV. Being able to run on clean fuel positions the WALTHER HERWIG IV as a role model in energy efficiency and ecological responsibility in the shipping industry.
Experience and commitment in shipbuilding
Alconza has shown what it can do in the manufacture of motors and generators for other well-known research vessels, such as the RV Kronprins Haakon of Norway and the RRS Sir David Attenborough of the United Kingdom. These projects, which require operation in freezing open waters all year round, indicate Alconza’s ability to comply with the highest standards of quality and efficiency in demanding environments.
With more than 60 years of experience, Alconza is consolidated as a leading manufacturer in the shipbuilding industry. Specialising in the design and manufacture of electric motors and custom generators, the company provides at high quality, tailored solutions to customers in various sectors worldwide. Its ability to innovative and adapt to the specific needs of each project has enabled it to maintain a notable position in the market.
