Strategic Partnership for New Dredge Construction
Eastern Shipbuilding Group Inc. (ESG) has joined forces with Royal IHC to design and build a cutting-edge, medium-class hopper dredge for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). The new vessel, expected to be delivered in 2027, will be constructed at ESG’s shipyards in Allanton and Port St. Joe, Florida. This collaboration marks a significant step in replacing the USACE’s 57-year-old dredge McFarland.
Innovative Design and Construction
The project leverages ESG and Royal IHC’s history of successful collaborations, aiming to deliver a dredging vessel that integrates advanced design, engineering, and automation technologies. “Our partnership with Royal IHC demonstrates our commitment to working with industry leaders to deliver superior vessels,” said Joey D’Isernia, CEO of Eastern Shipbuilding Group. The vessel will feature a highly automated setup and is designed to significantly enhance operational efficiency and performance in dredging operations.
Enhanced Dredging Capabilities and Efficiency
Leo van Ingen, Royal IHC’s Area Sales Director, highlighted the vessel’s innovative features, including a bulbous bow design that allows a 6,000 cubic yard hopper capacity. This design not only meets the USACE’s stringent size requirements but also maximizes dredging efficiency, leading to considerable fuel savings and faster operations. The vessel can be fully loaded with medium fine sand in under 45 minutes, and it includes high-efficiency pumps that nearly halve the discharge time.
Advanced Automation for Optimal Performance
The new hopper dredge will be equipped with state-of-the-art automation, including an integrated forward-looking sonar system, dynamic positioning, and tracking linked with dredging assist capabilities. These features are designed to optimize dredging techniques and improve overall operational efficiency. “The vessel’s ECO package enables it to load up to 15% more material while being energy efficient, which significantly reduces fuel consumption and environmental impact,” added van Ingen.
Autonomous Dredging Technologies
A key innovation in the hopper dredge is the implementation of Royal IHC’s dredging assist technology, which supports autonomous operation of suction pipes, soil unloading, and dredge pump activation, all under the supervision of the dredge master. The vessel also incorporates Royal IHC’s latest dredge pumps and patented Curve impellers, enhancing the dredge’s operational efficiency and durability.
Environmental Considerations and Propulsion System
The environmental footprint of the dredge is minimized through the use of Royal IHC’s patented Plumigator overflow, which reduces air release during overflow discharge. Additionally, the vessel’s propulsion system adheres to EPA Tier 4 and IMO Tier 3 standards, featuring a diesel-electric setup with three main generators that ensure flexibility, optimal fuel consumption, and safety during operations. This strategic design ensures the vessel meets the high demands of the Ready Reserve Fleet and operates effectively under various conditions.