The engines are equipped with a digital inclination sensor which constantly transmits measured values to a dedicated software program, which in turn processes the signals and trips appropriate responses to protect the engines. The software is eminently versatile allowing the SAR system to be tailored to meet customer requirements or different vessel designs.
Unlike previous versions, the SAR system therefore no longer depends on shipboard measuring equipment – the entire system comes from Rolls-Royce. “With this turnkey solution, our customers can rest assured that the engines receive the right information at all times, and can respond accordingly to environmental conditions,” explained Christoph Kern, who heads up SAR system sales activities at Rolls-Royce.
And now the Hong Kong Fire Service Department is also banking on this special system. The vessel will be built by the LUNGTEH SHIPBUILDING CO., LTD at Taiwan. The shipyard confirms that it is 38 meters long with three mtu engines powering them up to 27 knots (50 kilometers per hour) with an output of 1,630 kilowatts. The center engine also drives the fire-fighting pump – with plenty of power as well, the pump can deliver a good 12,000 liters of seawater at 10 – 15 bar every minute. The ship will be delivered to the Hong Kong Fire Service Department next year. Then it will break a record: it will be the world's largest ship that can continue to sail even after capsizing.