Simrad has been selected as supplier for the complete hydroacoustic instruments suite and all trawl monitoring systems for the NB399 “Cattleya”, a 62m combi fishing vessel that was scheduled for manufacture during summer 2006, by Karstensens Shipyard in Skagen Denmark.
The equipment package is similar in scope to that chosen in March 2006 for the new “Isafold” super-trawler, also being built by Karstensens.
“Cattleya” will also be equipped with Simrad catch control systems. A wireless Simrad PI catch monitoring system is integrated with the cable-based Simrad trawl sonar system. All sensors used on the wireless PI system can be received on the new Simrad FS70 trawl sonar system, giving the skipper full flexibility with all trawl sensors. Due to the integrated set-up, “Cattleya” only requires one set of sensors for both trawl systems and all sensor data can be shown on both the PI control unit and the trawl sonar monitor.
The sophisticated Simrad FS70 trawl sonar is the result of extensive R&D, to enable even better performance and trouble free operation under all conditions. It features easy to operate ‘sonar like’ software with simultaneous echo sounder function – the first of its kind on the market. The transducer on the sonar head is mounted in an oil-filled housing, which makes water ingress to the unit impossible and its light weight makes it easy to handle on deck. The extremely robust housing ensures it can handle the tough environments it will be used in.
“There are real cost-savings when integrating a PI system with the FS70, compared to buying Simrad trawl sonar and a non-Simrad catch control system together,” says Simrad’s Thor Bærhaugen.
“New sensors are constantly developed for these systems and “Cattleya” will benefit from this in the future”, he says.
“Cattleya” will utilise a new Simrad SP93 low frequency sonar, with true multifrequency and third generation beam stabilisation. The SP93 sonar is renowned for its outstanding performance in the high end fishing fleet and will ensure quality and quantity of catch. New software increases the range and provides a completely clutter free picture in addition to the new vertical feature which enables a 180° vertical view.
Simrad will also supply a Simrad ES60 echo sounder with 38kHz transmitter and transducers. The ES60 is the most flexible sounder in the fishing fleet and provides connection for up to four frequencies at the same time and an option for split beam, showing fish size on the screen. With the ES60 as the main sounder “Cattleya” will be able to add new frequencies as and when needed by the skipper.
