HMS Dauntless
In a collaboration between SeaKing Group, BAE Systems, BMT Defence Services, and Cammell Laird, the £1 billion Type 45 Destroyer, HMS Dauntless, emerged as the pioneer of the extensive Power Improvement Programme (PIP). Commencing in May 2020 at the Cammell Laird Shipyard in Birkenhead, this 18-month endeavour marked a significant milestone in enhancing the power and propulsion systems of the vessel.
Summary of Works
Project Overview
The project’s primary objective was to fortify the resilience of HMS Dauntless’s power and propulsion systems, which are critical for supporting the destroyer’s advanced engineering and weaponry systems.
Technical Enhancements:
Generator Upgrade
The existing power infrastructure witnessed a transformative shift with the removal of the vessel’s two 2MW Wartsila W200 diesel generators.
Three state-of-the-art MTU 3MW V-20 Series 4000 diesel generators were integrated, elevating the vessel’s power capacity.
High Voltage Distribution System Modification
A critical aspect of the project involved the installation of an additional high-voltage switchboard, optimising the vessel’s power distribution capabilities.
The high-voltage cabling underwent strategic modifications, ensuring seamless integration with the enhanced generator setup.
Collaborative Execution:
The project’s success was rooted in the collaborative efforts of SeaKing Group, BAE Systems, BMT Defence Services, and Cammell Laird. The synchronisation of expertise from each entity contributed to the seamless execution of the repair, set-to-work, and commissioning phases.
Operational Impact:
The culmination of the Power Improvement Programme reinforced HMS Dauntless with an advanced power infrastructure, enhancing its operational capabilities and longevity. The vessel is now poised to navigate the seas with heightened resilience and efficiency.
Technical Precision and Innovation:
SeaKing Group’s role in this transformative project exemplifies the company’s commitment to technical precision and innovation in maritime engineering. The integration of cutting-edge MTU diesel generators and modifications to the high-voltage distribution system showcases the technical excellence that defines SeaKing’s contributions to naval projects.
The HMS Dauntless Power Improvement Project is a testament to the collaborative spirit and technical ability of the entities involved, steering a new era of power efficiency for advanced naval vessels.
