Damen unveils 1,100 TEU container feeder design with hybrid propulsion

Damen Shipyards Group has introduced a new 1,100 TEU container feeder design aimed at regional and international feeder shipping. The CFe 1100 combines a fuel-efficient hull with hybrid propulsion and provisions for future methanol and battery integration.

The new vessel design expands Damen’s container feeder range, which includes the CFe 800, and forms part of the group’s wider cargo vessel portfolio.

Hybrid propulsion system

The CFe 1100 comes with a hybrid PTO/PTI system as standard.

Under the Power Take-Off (PTO) configuration, the main engine can generate electricity for onboard consumers, including refrigerated containers. This can reduce reliance on auxiliary generator sets during operations.

The Power Take-In (PTI) function provides additional electric power when higher propulsion output is required. According to Damen, this arrangement can support increased vessel speed and manoeuvrability while allowing the main engine to operate closer to its efficient operating range.

Design prepared for methanol and battery propulsion

Damen has incorporated provisions that could allow the CFe 1100 to be converted to methanol propulsion in the future.

Reserved space and system arrangements have been included in the engine room for a potential conversion, while the aft cargo hold can accommodate a future methanol tank. The fuel preparation arrangement is to be verified by classification society DNV.

The design also includes a dedicated battery room, providing the option to integrate battery technology alongside a future methanol propulsion system.

Additional efficiency and emissions-reduction technologies can also be specified. These include Damen’s Air Cavity System, which creates an air layer beneath part of the hull to reduce resistance, as well as shore power, the Damen Duct, pre-swirl fins and flow optimisation solutions around the propeller and rudder.

Container capacity and cargo handling

The CFe 1100 uses fixed cell guides designed for 20-, 40- and 45-foot containers. The deck arrangement has been configured to accommodate different container combinations while maintaining cargo capacity.

Hydraulically operated pivoting hatch covers are intended to facilitate cargo handling and reduce turnaround times in port.

For manoeuvring, the vessel is equipped with a flap rudder and bow thruster. A stern thruster is available as an option for additional manoeuvring capability in confined waters and port environments.

Ice-class capability

The CFe 1100 has a 1A Finnish-Swedish ice-class capability, allowing operation in first-year ice conditions with ice thickness of up to one metre.

Damen has opted for an aft accommodation arrangement and designed the vessel around homogeneous loading of 14 tonnes per TEU.

Damen CFe 1100 market positioning

Nard Brandsma, Manager Design of Damen Cargo Vessels, said the company is confident the design represents a solution suited to the needs of the sector, offering increased flexibility and efficiency for feedering operations.

The CFe 1100 has been introduced as a vessel design for the market. Damen has not announced an initial customer or construction order for the vessel.