Cruise operator can cruise through power outages

Security of power for the communications room of Royal Caribbean Cruise Line is now provided by a standby generator system from Scorpion Power Systems. Specified by consultants Meinhardt UK and purchased through BW Interiors, the generator will automatically support the company’s system if there is a protracted power outage. The 220 kVA diesel Powerhouse generator is installed on the roof in a super-silent acoustic weatherproof canopy. It is fitted with special features to ensure it is always ready for use and meets all current regulations. There is a heater to aid cold starting and a steel bund to retain any diesel spillage. Royal Caribbean Cruise Line operate Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises, with 29 ships in service, two being built and one on firm order. The standby power system comprises the generator, an automatic changeover panel to select between mains power and generator power, and an uninterruptible power supply. Critical items such as computer servers and telephone systems are supported by the UPS, which provides power if the mains fails until the generator has started up and stabilised. When mains power is restored, the changeover panel monitors its quality to ensure it is stable before transferring the load, with the UPS covering the very short break at the point of changeover as before. The operation is completely automatic.