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Draft:Barracuda (boat)

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  • Comment: The "safety features" section reads like promotional content. It could probably be combined with "technical features" after sources are found. Gorden 2211 (talk) 02:26, 2 September 2024 (UTC)

History
India
NameBarracuda
OwnerMazagon Dock Shipbuilders
OperatorMazagon Dock Shipbuilders
Port of registryMumbai
RouteMumbai waters
BuilderNavalt Solar and Electric Boats, Kochi, India
Cost₹2.5 Crores
Yard numberY-35
LaunchedNovember 2023
CompletedDecember 2023
In serviceJanuary 2024
StatusIn service
General characteristics
Class and typeIndian Register of Shipping IRS +IW ZONE 1, SEA STATE 5
Displacement14 tonnes
Length14 m
Beam4.4 m
Height3.5 m
Draught0.9 m
Depth1.75 m
DecksSingle
Installed power2 × 50 kW (max)
Propulsion2 Permanent magnet asynchronous electrical motors – 50 kW each (max) @ 700 rpm
Speed
  • 12.5 knots (23.2 km/h; 14.4 mph) (max)
  • 8 knots (15 km/h; 9.2 mph) (cruising)
Capacity12 passengers
Crew2

The Barracuda is a solar-powered boat currently in operation within Mumbai waters, situated in the Indian state of Maharashtra.[1] This vessel is the result of a collaborative effort between Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders and Navalt Solar and Electric Boats. Its design and construction were carried out by Navalt, at their Kochi headquarters and Panavally Yard.[2]

Technical features

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The Barracuda measures 14 meters in length and 4.4 meters in width. Its top surface is mounted with 30 square meters (320 sq ft) of solar panels, generating a peak power of 6 kW.[3] These panels are integrated with two electric motors, each rated at 50 kW, positioned within the hulls. The vessel is equipped with 1500 kg of lithium-ion batteries distributed across its twin hulls, providing a combined storage capacity of 88 kWh. The Barracuda can achieve speeds of up to 12.5 knots, corroborated by assessments conducted by an Indian Register of Shipping surveyor.[4]

Furthermore, the boat is outfitted with remote monitoring capabilities, facilitating troubleshooting and real-time monitoring from shore. This system not only records all operational parameters but also enables remote adjustments and software updates.

Safety features

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  • Due to its catamaran configuration, the Barracuda has higher stability compared to single-hulled vessels. This feature enables the boat to accommodate up to 30 passengers while still adhering to the stability standards mandated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for sea-going ships.[5]
  • The propulsion battery installed in the Barracuda has been granted approval by DNV Class, meeting stringent safety protocols. Such standards are important in minimizing the risk of thermal runaway, thereby enhancing the overall safety of the vessel.
  • With battery monitoring operating at the level of individual cells, the Barracuda mitigates risks associated with its energy storage system.
  • The Barracuda employs a multi-tiered safety warning system to improve safety. The first level alerts operators when specific parameters are nearing their limits, prompting proactive measures. Subsequently, the second level signals when limits have been reached, necessitating a slowdown in operations to prevent potential hazards. Finally, the third level triggers a system shutdown to safeguard against any breaches of upper limits, thereby protecting critical components. These parameters encompass various factors such as cell and motor temperatures, ensuring comprehensive monitoring and protection mechanisms are in place.
  • The Barracuda is outfitted with two independent powertrains, providing both reliability and redundancy. Should a system fault occur in one powertrain, the other remains unaffected due to their electrical independence, ensuring continuous operation without compromise. This design feature not only enhances overall reliability but also guarantees sustained functionality in the face of potential issues. Moreover, the boat satisfies the safety requirements set by the Indian Register of Shipping, demonstrating its capability to maintain cruise speed even if one set of propulsion is shut down. This dual powertrain setup not only enhances safety but also ensures uninterrupted performance, making the Barracuda a resilient vessel in maritime operations.

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "India's fastest solar-electric boat launched in Kochi". www.thehindu.com. 13 December 2023. Retrieved 14 December 2023.
  2. ^ "The Barracuda: India's fastest solar-electric boat sets sail for sustainable future". The Hindu BusinessLine. 14 December 2023. Retrieved 14 December 2023.
  3. ^ "Navalt launches India's fastest solar-electric boat Barracuda". www.plugboats.com. 20 December 2023. Retrieved 21 December 2023.
  4. ^ "Fastest solar electric boat sets sail for sustainable future in kochi". www.newindianexpress.com. 13 December 2023. Retrieved 14 December 2023.
  5. ^ Dubrovsky and Matveev. New Types of Seagoing Multi-hull Ships with Superior Comfort Level and Safety, Passenger Vessels for the New Millennium. p. 1-12.
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