Typhoon

Company

Chemgas

Solution

Retrofit

Key take-aways

Challenge

The bridge installation on several low air draft tankers operated by Chemgas had reached the end of its operational lifecycle. In close cooperation with the client, and based on a comprehensive evaluation and inventory assessment, it was determined which onboard equipment required replacement.

This modernization of the bridge installations has resulted in the vessels being re-equipped with advanced communication and navigation systems that comply with current regulations. As a result, the ships are technically prepared for the future and can continue to ensure their operational reliability.

Solution

For the low air draft tankers of Chemgas, including the Typhoon, a thorough analysis was carried out of the installed communication and navigation equipment, as well as the associated spare parts. This assessment identified which components were no longer available. Based on this inventory, we provided recommendations for replacement solutions, ensuring the vessels are once again future-proof in this respect for the long term.

In addition, using our Lynx automation platform, a fully customized conning display was developed. This new solution seamlessly matches the functionality and user-friendliness of the former system. As a result, the outdated computers were replaced with modern, state-of-the-art PCs, while the crew was able to continue working with the new software without additional training, thanks to the familiar and comparable GUI.

Customer Profile

Chemgas is a leading player in the transportation of liquefied gases under pressure, operating a specialized fleet of seagoing and inland vessels up to 3,523 m³. By investing in highly qualified personnel and applying advanced technologies, Chemgas achieves an efficient and safe transport process. Quality, reliability, and safety assurance are at the core of its operations.

Innovation and modernization have consistently been driving forces within the organization over the years. As early as the 1960s, Chemgas was the first company to transport liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) via inland waterways, pioneering this segment of the industry. Since then, the company has evolved from a regional innovator on the Rhine into the leading provider of liquefied gas transport on European inland waterways.

With the introduction of its unique low air draft tankers, including the Typhoon, Chemgas expanded its operational scope towards seagoing shipping from 1985 onwards. Today, this fleet forms an essential part of Chemgas’s integrated transport network and underlines its position as a market leader in safe, efficient, and future-oriented gas transportation.

Success

By carefully identifying and documenting the client’s wishes and requirements, our project team, in close cooperation with Chemgas, successfully completed the full retrofit of the Typhoon within the agreed deadline.

Moreover, through the implementation of a renewed conning solution, both the peripheral equipment and the onboard computers were fully modernized. As a result, the vessel once again complies with current technological standards and regulatory requirements, and is ready for many years of reliable and efficient operation.