GulfMark Offshore PSV's Receive RAACI Full Diesel Electric Propulsion System

Thoma-Sea Marine Constructors awarded Robichaux Automation and Control, Incorporated (RAACI) a single source vendor contract to design and supply a complete Diesel Electric Propulsion system to outfit two GulfMark Offshore 280 Class Deepwater DP-2 PSVs.  This award marks the first opportunity for RAACI to team with Thoma-Sea and GulfMark Offshore.  RAACI continues to deliver more and more diesel electric propulsion systems to the booming local maritime industry. 

The RAACI provided Power Management System will coordinate and control the interaction of the RAACI propulsion system and the RAACI electrical distribution system to allow for efficient operation of the vessels as well as providing blackout prevention.  This system as approved by ABS allows for full DP-2 operation with a closed switchboard bus as well as an open switchboard bus.  When asked about the closed bus operation Vice-President Dennis Robichaux replied “the way we have designed this system, the vessel can have multiple failures and still maintain full DP-2 operation.”

RAACI is providing three key integral systems for each vessel:

1.  Active Front End (AFE) Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) and Motors for the Propulsion and Thruster System:

2.  Full Electrical Distribution System with Power Management

3.  Alarm & Monitoring System (ABS ACCU & DP-2)

In addition to the above mentioned systems, RAACI is also providing the following equipment:

- (3) Air cooled, 495kW FIFI motors

ABS participated and witnessed the successful factory testing of the Electrical system and RAACI delivered that equipment to the shipyard the same week.  RAACI's engineering and production teams worked diligently to ensure that they stayed ahead of Thoma-Sea Marine's vessel construction schedule.  After delivery, RAACI continues to provide support to Thoma-Sea Marine as they continue construction.

GulfMark’s President and Chief Executive Officer Bruce Streeter says, “GulfMark wanted an electrical systems integrator that could provide cutting-edge technology for its diesel-electric control systems. We have worked very close with the “RAACI” engineers to develop an exceptional design that will provide addition levels of redundancy during dynamic positioning operations. RAACI’s system engineering and quality control during construction is some of the best in the industry.”

A growing, positive reputation with the Gulf Coast shipyards, loyal local supplier and distributor teammates, and a trusting relationship with worldwide vessel owners, RAACI is the preferred Diesel Electric Single Source Vendor.