The VARD shipbuilding group has contracted TMC Compressors (TMC) to supply the market’s most energy efficient marine compressed air system to a stern trawler that is being built for Norwegian fishing company Havbryn AS.

At the heart of the vessel’s marine compressed air system is TMC’s Smart Air compressors, which can offer up to 40 percent energy saving compared to conventional compressors. The system will consist of control and service air compressors plus air dryers.

TMC’s Smart Air compressors are based on a frequency-controlled technology that offers precise control of the compressor speed. Simply explained: the speed of the electrical motor will adjust itself according to what is required to produce the exact air volume necessary to meet the actual compressed air consumption at all times. In turn, lower air consumption requires less speed on the compressor, and this directly results in less power consumption.

“We understand that VARD will outfit the trawler with its with highly efficient energy storage system, energy management system and an innovative heat recovery system that all contribute towards minimised fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Our Smart Air compressors, which can offer up to 40 percent energy saving compared to conventional compressors, certainly add to the clear and impressive energy-saving profile of this stern trawler,” says Hans Petter Tanum, TMC’s director of sales and business development.

TMC will supply its Smart Air compressors to one of VARD’s yards in Norway. TMC has not disclosed the value of its contract.

The stern trawler of VARD 8 02 design is developed by Vard Design in Ålesund, Norway. The newbuild trawler will have a length of 80,4 meters and a beam of 16,7 meters.

The VARD 8 02 trawler design is a well-proven design that VARD is continuously developing to create an advanced trawler with all latest available technology on board. The vessel has excellent fuel economy and is outfitted for semi-pelagic and bottom-trawling operations with gentle handling to meet the latest demands for fish health management, efficiency, and environmentally friendly operations.

“We have delivered our Smart Air compressors to vessels of the VARD 8 02 design in the past, so we are familiar with the vessel design and VARD’s work methodology and quality requirements,” adds Tanum.

Delivery of the vessel is scheduled to Q3 2026.

The shipowner, Havbryn AS, is part of Strand Rederiet, which is one of Norway’s largest family-owned fishing boat companies.

Source: TMC Compressors