Self-Discharger: MV Nor Viking handles bulk cargo and timber with a SENNEBOGEN 875 E

The largest vessel in the fleet to date is the MV Nor Viking. Since entering service in 2022, the ship has been equipped with an integrated SENNEBOGEN 875 E material handler. Permanently integrated into the vessel's structure, the machine enables independent loading and unloading of the approximately 11,500 m³ cargo holds.

A self-unloading vessel, also referred to as a self-loader or self-discharger, is a cargo ship equipped with its own cargo-handling system. Its key advantage is the ability to load and unload cargo independently, without relying on shore-based cranes.

For Arriva Shipping, this independence is a major operational benefit. The MV Nor Viking can call at smaller ports where no cargo-handling infrastructure is available.
 

This concept places demanding technical requirements on both the vessel and the machine:

• Safe integration of the material handler into the vessel's structure

• Robust, seawater-resistant corrosion protection

• Sufficient reach and lifting capacity for cargo handling between the cargo hold and the quay

• Energy-efficient operation via the vessel's onboard power supply

• Excellent visibility into both the cargo hold and the quay area

On board the MV Nor Viking, the uppercarriage of the SENNEBOGEN 875 E is mounted on a fully traversable gantry. This gantry moves between the cargo hatches, allowing the material handler to reach different sections of the cargo holds.

Instead of operating from a fixed position, the machine follows the material flow along the length of the vessel. This is essential for efficiently handling bulk materials and timber from the deep and difficult-to-access areas of the cargo holds.

For the operator, the Skylift elevating cab provides excellent visibility. The cab can be raised and lowered continuously, ensuring an unobstructed view of both the cargo hold and the quay throughout the handling operation.

The SENNEBOGEN 875 E aboard the MV Nor Viking is powered by a 390 kW electric motor, supplied directly via the vessel's onboard electrical system. The electric drive enables quiet and low-emission operation while offering several practical advantages compared to a diesel-powered machine:

• Significantly extended maintenance intervals
• Reduced service requirements
• No time-consuming refueling
• Operation via the existing onboard power supply
• Lower emissions during port operations

In addition, the Green Hybrid energy recovery system further improves operating efficiency by reducing operating costs by up to 35 %.

With a reach of 26 meters, the SENNEBOGEN 875 E can access even the deepest and most difficult-to-reach areas of the cargo holds, ensuring the MV Nor Viking can carry out completely autonomous cargo handling operations. In addition to a clamshell bucket for bulk cargo, the machine can be quickly equipped with a timber grapple or other attachments, allowing it to adapt flexibly to different cargo types and customer requirements.

Following the positive experience with the MV Nor Viking, Arriva Shipping has already commissioned two additional sister self-unloading vessels, both of which will also be equipped with a SENNEBOGEN 875 E. The shipping company is supported by SENNEBOGEN's Norwegian sales and service partner Volvo Maskin, which provides technical consultation, service support, and long-term customer care.