Seafarers Gear Up: New Dual-Fuel Simulators Debut

Wärtsilä has supplied its new dual-fuel engine simulator technology for Wavelink Maritime Institute (WMI), the maritime training arm of the Singapore Maritime Officer’s Union (SMOU). The navigational and technological simulators are a central feature of the simulation suite at WMI, which was recently inaugurated by H.E. Ms. Grace FU Hai Yien, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment and Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations of the Republic of Singapore.

Sustainable fuels will play an integral role in the maritime industry’s goal of achieving net zero in shipping by 2050. However, an important part of this transition requires crew to be upskilled to handle these new and alternative fuels. The Wärtsilä simulator technology is specifically designed to train seafarers in the latest efficiency concepts and prepare them for operating with the next generation of marine fuels. The dual-fuel simulators include a virtual reality element to replicate realistic scenarios with different fuels and engine types. They also incorporate cloud-based simulation combined with Wavelink’s own learning management system to provide blended learning experiences.

"Seafarers today must continue to reskill and upskill, particularly in the areas of decarbonisation and new alternative fuels. Wärtsilä’s advanced simulator technology allows us to provide the highest quality maritime training, ensuring that our students are fully in step with the transition currently underway in the shipping industry," says Teo Keong Kok, Managing Director, Wavelink Maritime Institute.

The simulation suite also includes a full-mission bridge with 270-degree visualisation, and a part-task bridge with 120-degree visualisation for hands-on ship handling training in compliance with international standards. The technical simulators include full-mission and multi-functional network classroom set-ups for engine-room and liquid cargo handling training.

“Climate regulation is pushing for constant improvement in fuel efficiency to drive down emissions meaning alternative and transition fuels will play a significant role in achieving these goals,” comments Kiran Kumar, Product Sales Manager at Wärtsilä Marine. “The new simulation suite with Wärtsilä technology provides realistic training opportunities that will allow their graduates to safely operate technologically advanced vessels, whilst preparing them for shipping’s decarbonised future."

Wärtsilä began its partnership with WMI in 2014 with the launch of a maritime simulation centre, including a class of 16 workstations. An integrated engine room and liquid cargo handling simulator class of 20 workstations was also delivered for the training of engineering watchkeeping personnel.