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A new factory trawler fishing vessel being built for Norwegian marine trawling operator Halstensen Granit AS is to feature a complete Wärtsilä propulsion solution.

The vessel is under construction at the Tersan yard in Turkey and the Wärtsilä equipment is scheduled for delivery in mid-2016. The contract was signed in August.

"The new vessel will be operating in challenging sea and weather conditions in the Barents Sea and off the coasts of Norway and Greenland. It is essential, therefore, that the propulsion machinery is both highly efficient and extremely reliable. We have every confidence in Wärtsilä's expertise in these areas," commented owner Inge Halstensen.

Wärtsilä says the vessel will employ the latest technologies to ensure the highest level of operating efficiency. The engine manufacturer is to supply the Wärtsilä 32 main engine, as well as the two-speed gearbox, controlled pitch propeller (CPP), the HP nozzle, seals and bearings.

According to Wärtsilä, the 32 engine features "excellent fuel efficiency even at lower engine loads". The Finnish firm says its two-speed gearbox enables lower propeller speeds and optimised propulsion efficiency, while still using the main engine power for the shaft alternator. This in turn results in lower costs than when using high speed generating sets.

"We have worked in close cooperation with the owner for many years, and through this have gained excellent insight into the needs and requirements for efficient fishing vessel operations. As a result, we were able to present calculations for alternative propulsion solutions so that the optimal solution could be selected," said Arne Mæland, General Manager Sales, Wärtsilä Marine Solutions.

Wärtsilä has previously supplied the propulsion systems for three purse seiner vessels owned and operated by Halstensen Holding AS.