F111 “Bonifaz” has started two of its four diesel generators for the first time, fulfilling an important milestone in the program. The vessel, currently docked at Navantia Ferrol’s dock 10, is thus advancing in the commissioning work of its power plant, within the framework of a program that is progressing according to the established planning.
This new achievement comes after F111 previously passed the switch-on milestone for externally powered electrical panels. With the start-up of the diesel generators, the ship is now capable of generating electricity by its own means, marking a key step towards full operation.
The ignition process of the four diesel generators, in collaboration with the Engineering, Construction and Works Headquarters of the Ferrol Arsenal (ICOFER), takes place over several days, with exhaustive control and following the manufacturer’s and shipyard’s own procedures.
The next step will be the switching on of the Integrated Platform Control System (SICP), followed by the start-up of the electric propulsion motors in summer and then the commissioning of the gas turbine, thus completing the installation and full commissioning of the F111 propulsion later this year.
The F111 is equipped with four diesel generator sets developed by the Cartagena Engine Factory. Each ship has four groups to cover all the operational needs of the frigate, complying with the high technical and functional requirements of the Navy as well as quality and environmental regulations.
The F110 series propulsion model is a combination of diesel-electric and gas turbine (CODELAG, Combined Diesel Electric and Gas), with the option of electric-only, turbine-only or combined navigation of both. It has two electric motors of 3.4 MW each, a 22 MW gas turbine and an azimuth retractable pusher in the bow.
The F110 program continues its course in strict compliance with contractual deadlines and even ahead of the main milestones, as a result of the close collaboration between Navantia and Defence. The F112 “Roger de Lauria” is advancing in the slipway, about to complete its structure, with 27 of the 32 blocks that are assembled before the launch, scheduled for after the summer, already in place. The F113 “Menéndez de Avilés” continues its construction process in the workshops, with 28 blocks in different stages of production. The keel laying is scheduled for the next few weeks, as well as the start of the production of the F114, “Luis de Córdova”.