In 2022, we modernized two BIZON pushers. These versatile units were built in Polish shipyards between 1965 and 1980. The technical expertise of Polish designers and engineers has proven effective in operations on rivers in both Poland and Germany. In the second decade of the 21st century, with the introduction of stringent emission standards and the requirements for increased tonnage of pushed sets, shipowners faced the necessity of change. Modernizing the fleet, which has been proven reliable over many years, is the simplest and most effective way to meet the demands of the inland shipping market.
The contract implementation lasted 9 months. Under the agreement, we completely replaced the propulsion systems, including:
- Replacing the main engines with ones that meet the Stage V standard according to ES-TRIN 2020 and 2023,
- Designing and manufacturing drive shafts capable of handling double the power,
- Installing new propellers with variable geometry,
- Designing and implementing new automation systems,
- Replacing auxiliary engines and generators.
Additionally, we made several enhancements:
- Placed the wheelhouses on hydraulic scissor lifts, allowing height adjustment from 3 to 8 meters above the water surface,
- Designed and installed outboard and jacket cooling systems for the main and auxiliary engines,
- Improved the living conditions for the crew.
A challenge in the project execution was coordinating the work of multiple teams within the relatively small space of the modified units and dealing with an unstable supply chain resulting from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. We effectively overcame all these constraints.
