ABB has been awarded a significant contract with Helsinki Shipyard to provide a complete electric power and propulsion solution for the Polar Max icebreaker. Planned for delivery to the Canadian Coast Guard by 2030, this marks a vital step in the development of advanced polar vessels.
The Polar Max will be constructed as part of an unprecedented industrial collaboration between sites in Finland and Canada. With its 22,800-tonne, 138.5-metre frame, the vessel represents the first shipbuilding endeavour at Helsinki Shipyard under the ownership of the Canadian company, Davie.
Functions beyond icebreaking
The Polar Max icebreaker will not only clear ice, but also serve as a research platform
In its multifaceted role, the Polar Max icebreaker will not only clear ice, but also serve as a research platform and support oil spill response efforts.
Further responsibilities include emergency towing, responding to maritime incidents, and facilitating northern resupply missions throughout the year.
Azipod propulsion system
"For decades, the Azipod propulsion has consistently demonstrated its capabilities in harsh ice conditions, proving its reliability and performance in the world’s most demanding maritime environments," stated Juha Koskela, Division President, ABB Marine & Ports, adding "It is an honour to contribute to a project that is not only vital for polar operations but also strengthens the shipbuilding industry cooperation between Finland and Canada."
The Polar Max project supports the objectives of the Icebreaker Collaboration Effort (ICE Pact), a trilateral initiative with Finland and the United States to bolster expertise and capacities in designing and constructing Arctic and polar vessels.
Comprehensive supply from ABB
ABB's role in ensuring the operational excellence of the Polar Max is expansive
ABB's role in ensuring the operational excellence of the Polar Max is expansive. The company will integrate a full range of power and propulsion solutions, including Azipod electric propulsion units, a shaftline propulsion motor, and associated drives.
Additional components cover transformers, generators, switchboards, shore connection points, LTO batteries, and a power and energy management system. To enhance navigation, the vessel will feature ABB’s AX Bridge solution, which enhances situational awareness and simplifies ship manoeuvring for the bridge crew.
Significance of the Polar Max Project
"The Polar Max project is an important milestone in expanding production and design in Helsinki," commented Kim Salmi, CEO of Helsinki Shipyard, adding "The project is an excellent example of Helsinki Shipyard’s leading Arctic shipbuilding expertise, which is in significant demand internationally. We look forward to collaborating with ABB on this new build."
James Davies, CEO of Davie Shipbuilding, highlighted the importance of collaborative relationships, stating, "Fostering shipbuilding collaborations with trusted partners is essential to advancing shared goals. This contract consolidates the longstanding relationship between ABB and Davie and reflects our mutual commitment to excellence in polar shipbuilding."
Unmatched expertise in ice navigation
ABB's extensive experience in ice navigation systems is unmatched. Known for their reliable technology, Azipod propulsion systems are utilised in approximately 100 ice-capable or icebreaking ships worldwide, including notable examples like the Polar Security Cutter Polar Sentinel (USA) and Polaris icebreaker (Finland), built at Helsinki Shipyard.
Davie, headquartered in Québec, Canada since 1825, is renowned for designing and constructing specialist ships such as icebreakers, ferries, and warships for both governmental and commercial clients. On April 4, 2023, Davie became a partner in Canada's National Shipbuilding Strategy. In a significant acquisition in November 2023, Davie acquired Finland’s Helsinki Shipyard, a global leader in icebreaker design and construction.
