Rittal designs switchboard for Scottish fishing trawler

Rittal UK has designed and supplied a customized motor control centre (MCC) switchboard for the new control centre of the Endeavour V, a Scottish fishing trawler. The solution, developed for NU-Design Limited, adheres to strict marine regulations and was adapted for the vessel's confined spaces.

The project required specific engineering solutions to meet the demands of a Bureau Veritas +1A1 fishing vessel, including fitting the unit into a small onboard switch room. Additional pressures included a tight deadline and the necessity for installation during the vessel's land-based construction phase.

Rittal's engineering team created an initial design using the company's configuration software, later modifying it into an L-shape to optimize placement within a tight corner. Installation and commissioning were handled by specialist contractor R.D. Downies Ltd.

The final design accommodates power input from two generators and a shore power connection, supporting up to approximately 500 amps. It features generator power monitoring, synchronizing controls, clear labeling, component interlocking, and high IP ratings for ease of operation and maintenance in marine environments.

NU-Design highlighted Rittal's marine type approval, stock availability, and ease of modular assembly. Following the success of the Endeavour V project, Rittal is now constructing a second switchboard for another fishing trawler.