A new technology research programme aimed at developing propulsion products specifically for operating in arctic conditions has been implemented with Wärtsilä and VTT as the main contributors. The ArTEco (Arctic Thruster Ecosystem) project will altogether be supported by ten industrial and academic partners from Finland and other countries.
ArTEco is a three year programme, commencing in 2015 and ending in 2017. Its primary aim is to foster new technology for propulsion solutions in an arctic operating environment. The platform will consist of:
- developing state-of-the-art simulation and load determining methods for dynamic loading conditions;
- researching possibilities for dampening dynamic loads;
- researching the use of Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants in propulsion products; and
- researching new sensor technology for components used in propulsion products.
Large-Scale Protoype
The new technology that is expected to emerge from this project will have the potential to significantly improve the competitiveness of solutions, in terms of cost, size and reliability, compared to products currently available. This will be aided through the creation of a technology demonstrator, that is, a large-scale prototype, to be used for validating the technology within the project. This validation will take place at the Wärtsilä Propulsion Test Centre in Tuusula, Finland.
Extreme Value Thruster
The specific focus will be on creating an Extreme Value Thruster as a platform for demonstrating quantum leaps in thruster technologies. The programme has a budget of EUR 7.5 million.
Picture: The Wärtsilä Propulsion Test Centre in Tuusula, Finland.
