PHILIPSBURG – GEBE stated in a press release that DG #20, the newest engine of NV GEBE started for the first time on December 11.
It had to go through a number of tests in order to be sure that all safety devices were functional and to ensure that the engine was running according to manufacturer specifications. The engine went through its first 10 days of maximum output and was taken down for its final inspection over the past weekend.
“DG #20 has been officially handed over to NV GEBE for commercial operation at 4:30pm, December 19, 2016 after all paperwork was reviewed and signed off,” stated CEO of GEBE Kenrick Chittick.
The new engine is now running along with the other units of the power plant. This new engine will increase the reliability and stability of the power plant. The contract for this engine was signed the second week of March, the engine arrived on St. Maarten and was off loaded on September 15, 2016. On the night of October 15-16, the engine was transported to the Cay Bay power plant. That same week it was lifted into the building and set in its final place for the next 25 plus years.
“The official handing over date was set at December 15, so we can very well say that the project was a success,” said Chittick.
This engine output is 11.3 Megawatts and is capable of running on Liquid Natural Gas (LNG), HFO and Diesel. It is referred to as a “Dual Fuel engine.” The engine has 12 cylinders and a piston bore of 500 mm (12V50 DF). The engine is fully computerized and with the latest technology.
It is the intention of GEBE to peruse LNG and convert two of the previous engines to LNG once this gas becomes available on island. LNG is a much cleaner operation, and this will reduce exhaust gas emissions. This will make a significant improvement to the environment, as GEBE is moving towards becoming more environmentally friendly.
