December 12, 2018

Final presentation of the results from the MariGreen subproject „Training Technologies for the use of LNG“ on the 12^th of December at the Maritime Competence Center (MARIKO) in Leer, Germany

Leer. On the 12^th of December 2018, the final results of the MariGreen subproject „Training Technologies for the use of LNG“ were presented at MARIKO. Since the demand for training and further education in the maritime sector regarding new technologies is very high, the objective of the subproject was the development of an online blended training system for the flexible, safe and efficient training of personnel aboard ships according to STCW V/3. The aim was to investigate how and with which new technologies the best training concept can be offered to nautical personnel on vessels using LNG as fuel.

The project partners (Innovam, NHL Hogeschool, Hochschule Emden/Leer, DST – Entwicklungszentrum für Schiffstechnik und Transportsysteme) developed modern training methods for the handling of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) as fuel on board based on augmented and virtual reality during the course of the project.

The handling of LNG as an alternative fuel is much more complex than conventional fuels such as diesel or heavy fuel oil. LNG is a cryogenic liquid fuel and is stored and transported at extremely low temperatures (- 163°C) and under high pressure. The use of LNG requires new and more complex equipment, which can lead to major risks on board, especially by incorrectly application and ignorance. New processes, equipment and techniques will be introduced on a ship using LNG as fuel. These previously unknown processes have high safety requirements.

The challenge was to communicate the new complex technologies and processes to nautical personnel. This is offered in a blended learning environment in the right and most efficient way in accordance with the applicable STCW guidelines. A basic LNG course and a „truck to ship“ bunker process based on the new LNG ferry of the Rederij Doeksen and „WES AMELIE“ from the Reederei Wessels serve as test cases for these technologies.

Requirements for certification and marketing of the online training system will be examined during the remaining project period.