MD Electric: Powering the NOAA Ship Oscar Dyson Mid-Life Extension

A Major Project in Ketchikan, Alaska

MD Electric is charging forward on one of our most significant projects yet: the electrical portion of the NOAA Ship Oscar Dyson Mid-Life Extension. This isn't just a repair job; it's a complete modernization of a critical scientific research vessel, and we're proud to be at the heart of it. This project, taking place in Ketchikan, Alaska, is a testament to our team's specialized skills and dedication to marine electrical excellence.

Aerial view of Ketchikan Shipyard

Scope of Work: A Monumental Undertaking

This is a monumental undertaking, and our scope of work is vast and complex. We're handling everything from the main power systems to the ship's most advanced navigational and scientific equipment. The heart of our work involves the vessel repowering, a total transformation of the ship's electrical backbone.

Key Components of the Project

We are providing the cabling and making all the necessary connections for the new propulsion motors, ship service generators, and the bow thruster motor. We will also be integrating new equipment into the new LVDC Propulsion Control Switchboard and the Electrical Plant Switchboard.

Critical System-Wide Electrical Upgrades

We're also tackling a number of critical system-wide electrical upgrades:

• Cable Removals: We're removing and disposing of unused or dead-ended cables from the ship's cable trays and penetrations. This ensures a clean, organized, and compliant electrical system moving forward.

• Inspections and Maintenance: We'll be meticulously servicing and inspecting transformers, control centers, and the emergency switchboard to ensure the highest standards of safety and reliability.

• System Replacements: Our team is responsible for replacing the vessel's legacy systems, including the Dynamic Positioning System (DPS), Fire & Alarm Detection System, RAPP Pentagon System, and all VHF, HF, S-Band, and X-Band radars.

• Motor Conversion: We're converting a number of auxiliary electric motors to 480V, optimizing their performance and integrating them into the new power system.

  
  

NOAAS Oscar Dyson in northern waters.

Demonstrating Expertise in a Challenging Environment

This project is more than just a list of tasks; it's a chance for us to demonstrate our expertise in a challenging marine environment. Every wire we pull and every connection we make is a step towards guaranteeing the Oscar Dyson can continue its vital scientific work for years to come.

Commitment to Excellence

This major win showcases our growth and commitment to taking on the most complex electrical projects in the industry. As we continue to expand our capabilities and tackle new challenges, we're excited to share our progress with you.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the electrical modernization of the NOAA Ship Oscar Dyson is a significant milestone for MD Electric. Our dedicated team is committed to ensuring the highest standards of safety and efficiency. We look forward to the successful completion of this project and the positive impact it will have on scientific research.

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