Dynamic Positioning System Market

Dynamic Positioning System Market Subsystem Segment Insights

Dynamic Positioning System Market Subsystem Insights

Based on Subsystem, the Dynamic Positioning System Market segmentation includes Control System, Thruster System, Power System and Others. The Control System segment held the majority share in 2022, contributing around ~41.3% to the market revenue. A control system enables a vessel to maintain its position and head automatically. It utilizes a combination of sensors, computer systems, and thrusters to counteract external forces such as wind, waves, and currents, ensuring the vessel stays in a desired location.

The control system continuously receives information from position reference sensors, wind sensors, motion sensors, and gyrocompasses to calculate the necessary steering angles and thruster outputs for each thruster. The control system in dynamic positioning is essential for various applications, including offshore drilling, cable-laying vessels, cruise ships, research vessels, and many others. It allows for precise maneuverability and positioning, even in challenging conditions, making it a valuable tool in the maritime industry.

A power system refers to the generation and distribution of electrical power required to operate a vessel's propulsion and manoeuvring thrusters. It is one of the key sub-systems of a DP system. An ideal DP power system is designed to provide reliable and uninterrupted power to the thrusters even during failure conditions. It typically consists of multiple diesel generator sets which feed busbars and switchboards. The switchboards then distribute power to electric propulsion motors and thruster drives.

The DP control system monitors the power system to ensure adequate power from the generators to maintain the vessel's position as required by environmental conditions. Having redundant power sources is crucial for dynamic positioning operations to withstand single generator or busbar failures.

Figure 1: Dynamic Positioning System Market, by Component, 2022 & 2032 (USD Million)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, Market Research Future Database, and Analyst Review

Dynamic Positioning System Market Equipment Class Insights

Based on Equipment Class, the Dynamic Positioning System Market segmentation includes Class 1, Class 2 and Class 3. The Class 2 segment held the majority share in 2022 contributing around ~49.3% to the market revenue. Class 2 are designed for vessels that operate in more demanding environments. These systems have a redundant capability, meaning they can automatically compensate for equipment failures, ensuring the vessel's position is precisely maintained. Class 2 DP systems are required for operations in areas with more challenging weather conditions or critical operations.

They provide increased reliability and safety compared to Class 1 systems, making them suitable for offshore construction, seismic surveys, and offshore supply vessels.

Class 1 Dynamic Positioning (DP) systems are designed for vessels that require position-keeping capabilities under normal weather conditions. These systems have a single failure tolerance, meaning that the system should remain operational and maintain its position in the event of a single failure. Class 1 DP systems generally have essential redundancy and are typically used in benign environments where failure poses no significant risk to human life or the environment. They are commonly used in offshore drilling, pipe laying, and diving operations.

Dynamic Positioning System Market Application Insights

Based on the Application, the Dynamic Positioning System Market segmentation includes Merchant Vessels, Passenger Vessels, Naval Vessels and Offshore Vessels. The Offshore Vessels segment hold the majority market share in 2022 contributing 49.4% of the market share. DPS significantly benefits offshore activities such as drilling, subsea construction, cable laying, and offshore platform maintenance. Firstly, it enhances safety by eliminating the need for anchors, reducing the risk of anchor dragging or damage to sensitive seafloor structures. This is especially crucial in harsh weather conditions or deep-water environments.

Secondly, DPS allows for precise maneuvering and positioning, essential for intricate operations such as connecting subsea pipelines or conducting delicate repairs. It enables more efficient and accurate processes, reducing downtime and costs. Additionally, DPS allows vessels to maintain a fixed position during offshore drilling operations, ensuring precise wellbore placement. This is vital for optimizing hydrocarbon extraction and reducing environmental risks.

Naval operations enable precise positioning of vessels during sensitive processes such as mine clearance, underwater exploration, or launching and recovering unmanned vehicles. DPS enhances vessel stability, allowing for more accurate and stable weapon deployment increasing the accuracy of missile launches or naval gunfire support. Moreover, DPS improves the safety and effectiveness of maritime operations in challenging environmental conditions by compensating for wind, wave, and current effects. This technology allows vessels to stay on station during adverse weather conditions, making it valuable in search and rescue missions, offshore patrols, or extended surveillance operations.

Overall, applying dynamic positioning systems in naval vessels provides enhanced operational capabilities, increased safety, and improved efficiency in accomplishing various naval tasks, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the maritime force.