Replacing the operating system gave new life to one of the world’s largest civilian hospital ships
When DSB decided in 1978 to build three IC train ferries for the Great Belt, they could hardly have imagined that one of them would one day become one of the world’s largest non-governmental hospital ships based on the African continent. Nevertheless, that is what happened to the ship, M/F Dronning Ingrid.
A Complex Challenge with a Successful Outcome
The Challenge
When DSB decided in 1978 to build three IC train ferries for the Great Belt, they could hardly have imagined that one of them would one day become one of the world’s largest non-governmental hospital ships based on the African continent. Nevertheless, that is what happened to the ship, M/F Dronning Ingrid.
M/F Dronning Ingrid embarked on her maiden voyage in August 1980 on the Great Belt between Korsør and Nyborg. 17 years later, it was over, and she was put on standby in Nakskov.
Two years later, new adventures were in sight for Dronning Ingrid when she was purchased by Mercy Ships. This marked the beginning of a longer conversion at the Cammel Laird shipyard and later the A & P Tyne shipyard in Newcastle before she was ready to sail under the name “Africa Mercy” in 2007.
39 years after she was first launched, it was no longer feasible, and the time had come to replace several central parts of the ship. Fate would have it that Dronning Ingrid once again came into Danish hands.
The Solution
At the Astican shipyard in Las Palmas, Hans Buch Marine was responsible for replacing the ship’s control system.
A complex challenge that was crucial for the ship’s continued operation. What started as a more “simple” replacement of vital components later became a real turn-key project, where Hans Buch Marine, in collaboration with German Loewe Marine and Danish SH Group, played a central role. Hans Buch Marine & Loewe Marine had the joint overall responsibility for managing the project, approving mechanical and electrical systems, starting up the systems, and conducting sea trials from Gran Canaria to Tenerife.
Additionally, the involved companies each had their specialized tasks, which ensured the project’s success.
Result
The project was successfully completed in August 2019.
“In my 40 years in the industry, I have never before worked with such professional and competent people, who constantly pursue the best solution. Thank you.”
Alphonse Abraham, Technical Support Officer, Mercy Ships
