ETNZ base
In previous years, Emirates Team New Zealand's base was constructed using new and existing 40 foot containers and canvas tents that were wired in New Zealand. A new and economical solution was desired that would make it easier to convert the supplied voltage from the San Francisco base (480 V 60 Hz) to the New Zealand base (400 V 50 Hz). Thanks to ABB's power conversion technology, this could be achieved using a 250 kVA PCS100 static frequency converter (SFC). ABB's highly efficient system (95 percent) coupled with its compact design, will provide seamless power conversion to feed the base which is hosting 80 employees and a hospitality area - which is incidentally the "Waka" (1) large mobile hospitality venue that was used on Auckland's waterfront for the Rugby World Cup 2011.
Sean Nelson, Bishman's (Electrical Contractors) Project Manager, commented highlighted the SFCs advantages, regarding operational cost and delivery time to San Francisco, "It was the only sensible solution that was highly reliable, was available in time and was cost effective."
PCS100 features
A unique feature critical to the reliability of the converted output supply is the built-in redundancy capability; an intrinsic feature of the modular system design. In an unlikely event where either a single rectifier or inverter module encounters a fault and stops functioning, the master controller that oversees the power modules will provide a warning notification - but will allow the system to continue to operate. With a campaign budget of over 100 million, it was essential that reliability of the PCS100 SFC operating 24/7 in a foreign base would prevail.
America's cup
Emirates Team New Zealand (ETNZ), twice winner of the America's Cup, is competing this year in San Francisco, which includes the Louis Vuitton Cup from July 7th to September 22nd. An experienced team, led by managing director Grant Dalton and skipper Dean Barker, many expect the Kiwis to be among the top challengers. Their success in America's Cup competitions has contributed to New Zealand's reputation for producing world-class boat designers and sailors. Watch the excitement of the countdown to the America's Cup, summer of racing.
(1) Waka: Canoes of the Maori of New Zealand.
