Electrical onboard network overhauled Kemeling tour boat

Collaboration between Robust-MT Marine Technology BV and Kemeling Kunststoffen regularly leads to beautiful, innovative new construction projects. This specific project, however, involves the refit of an existing vessel. The Westlander tour boat, an impressive HDPE showcase model measuring approximately 8.5 by 2.5 meters, was not originally built or wired by our team. Unfortunately, our strategic partner encountered significant electrical malfunctions in practice. The batteries were draining unintentionally, the charge status remained invisible, and the shore power supply was not functioning reliably. Moreover, the existing wiring proved to be disorganized and fragmented. Therefore, Robust-MT was tasked with thoroughly cleaning up, restructuring, and optimizing the entire installation for daily business use.

Customer wishes

The main objective of this project was to guarantee a reliable and fault-free power network on board the vessel. The priorities within this remediation were:

Eliminating leakage currents

Identifying and resolving the cause of the draining battery banks.

Reliable charging infrastructure

A flawlessly working shore power system that functions both on the boat and at the permanent berth.

Full status insight

Installing a digital dashboard to instantly read current power consumption and the exact range.

Active battery protection

Integrating protection systems to prevent deep discharge and premature damage to the expensive batteries.

Solution by Robust-MT

Our engineering team started by thoroughly reviewing and restructuring the fragmented wiring. We removed redundant cables and installed a clean, centralized structure in accordance with maritime safety standards. The upgrade consists of the following modifications:

On-board network optimization

We have thoroughly revised the entire 12-volt on-board network. From now on, all electrical circuits and peripherals are individually and clearly fused.

Monitoring and shunts

To gain accurate insight into energy management, we installed precise shunts and digital battery monitors. As a result, the exact charge status is now immediately visible on the dashboard at all times.

System protection

To permanently protect the battery banks against deep discharge, our team integrated professional Victron BatteryProtect modules into the charge and discharge circuits.

Fixed shore power infrastructure

We installed a complete, certified shore power set on board the tour boat. In addition, we installed a corresponding shore power supply at the owner's office building. This allows the sloop to be charged safely and efficiently directly at its own permanent berth.

Result

The electrical refurbishment of the HDPE Westlander tour boat is an unqualified success. The cluttered wiring has given way to a sleek, professional, and safe installation. Since delivery, the complete system has functioned flawlessly under all conditions. Thanks to the new battery monitors and shunts, the crew now has perfect insight into the current range. The built-in BatteryProtects completely eliminate the risk of deep discharge, guaranteeing the lifespan of the battery bank. Although this was a relatively compact and straightforward project, it proves that Robust-MT can successfully transform existing installations into reliable and worry-free systems.

The first three photos below show the old situation, the last two photos show the new situation.