£9m investment in nine pilot vessels
Associated British Ports (ABP) has commissioned nine new Orc pilot vessels from UK boat builder Goodchild Marine Services Limited. The nine vessels will serve around the UK, with five in ABP Humber ports, three in Southampton, and the remaining operating in Barry, South Wales. They’ll be delivered over the next five years in an investment said to be worth £9m.
The ORC line of pilot vessels is known for its performance, efficiency and design which allows for high speed in all weather conditions. Builders say its hull design provides operators with significant fuel reduction.
The fleet will consist of three ORC 171 pilot vessels operating at 641hp @2100rpm, and six smaller ORC 136 vessels working at 512hp @1800rpm.
MIT has been selected to specify and supply the 18 freestanding gearboxes that will form part of the powertrain onboard the new vessels.
MGX5136A transmissions will be supplied complete with quick shift technology and electronic controls to enable the vessels with smooth, fast shifting and superior manoeuvrability, says MIT. Twin Disc Quick Shift will be installed with lever controls meaning the vessels can, with single or dual levers, adjust engine speed, prop speed, direction and instant full power — or any desired degree between idle and full.
“We were delighted to work on this project in conjunction with Goodchild Marine, specifying leading marine gears for all nine vessels in the new ABP fleet,” says Dave Little, applications manager, MIT. “Our whole life-cycle support ensures the UK marine sector benefits from best-in-class drive technology and unsurpassed aftermarket support.”
