Manson completed a major retrofit of the cutter suction dredge (CSD) H.R. MORRIS recently, replacing its main pump and drive motor system with a newer system that will boost efficiency and reduce emissions during dredging operations.
“ The company recognized the demand for increased efficiency and jumped at the opportunity to upgrade the pump system ,” said Brad Martin , Manson Vice President for Equipment.
“The latest models of electric motor, motor drives, and pump systems offer higher output, lower operating costs, and shrink carbon footprint.”
Aside from the retrofit to the main pump, crews made other improvements throughout the dredge, including a remodel of the galley, office, and lever room; upgrades to the ladder and cutter motors, sensor, and antennas; and removing a structure for adequate operator visibility and better roof access.
“ The remodel of several areas of the dredge will make our work easier and smoother—especially the lever room ,” said H.R. MORRIS Leverman Tom Souza .
“The lever room was completely gutted, and wiring in the ceiling was laid nicely, which improves access to the panels. Before the retrofit, we would have to cut out parts of the ceiling to make changes.”
The upgrades are set to enhance the dredge’s performance capabilities on regional dredging projects, staying under the maximum emission allowances, which will allow the dredge to keep working while using less fuel – reducing emissions by more than 30% while powered by its onboard diesel generators, concluded Manson.