Qtagg

“With both companies being located in Västerås this made it easy for us to collaborate and gain from each other’s expertise,” said Tomas Lindqvist, CEO of Qtagg, about choosing Westermo as their supplier.

When identifying the right data network technology provider, the most important factor was the availability of devices with DNV GL marine type-approval, which ensures the technology can withstand the extreme temperatures, humidity, extreme vibration, shock and EMC noise typically found on board vessels. EMC immunity, the availability of fibre optic ports and passive cooling that helps to contribute to greater reliability and lifespan were also important factors. Westermo’s Lynx L110-F2G Ethernet switches were selected to create and manage the data network. With DNV certification, a mean time between failure (MTBF) of 630,000 hours, robust casing and EMC resistance, the switch provides the ideal solution. Additionally, the small footprint and compact design allowed the Lynx to be installed in the confined spaces typically available where the Qtagg equipment is installed. 

“Our customers have very high demands relating to system availability. The systems also operate in a very challenging environment, which is why we chose Westermo as our supplier of industrial data communication technology. Westermo share the same values that we do, and therefore it has been a perfect match,”
explained Lindqvist.

Redundant solution

In addition to the robustness of the hardware, Qtagg also needs a solution that creates a redundant network. Should a network failure occur, it is critical that the system continues to function without interruption, since the ship could be out at sea. By adding redundancy, this provides greater network resiliency ensuring systems remain operational until failed components can be repaired or replaced when the vessel reach the next port.

Working with Westermo, Qtagg designed the data network using WeConfig, Westermo’s network configuration tool, which makes configuration and maintenance more efficient, simple and reliable. Westermo’s own robust and reliable FRNT (fast recovery of network topology) protocol was used to build resilient ring networks that offered a high level of redundancy. In the event of network link failure, the FRNT protocol quickly reroutes the data around the ring network ensuring the network remains functional and no data is lost.

Westermo’s Lynx switch installed on Qtagg’s test rig.

“A reliable and effective communication solution is necessary for our systems to work properly. Westermo’s networking technology meets both our own, as well as our customers’ high expectations and demands in terms of quality and performance,” commented Lindqvist about the partnership.

“Westermo’s solutions are primarily about solving data communications problems for customers and our mission is to provide the digital infrastructure that a customer needs to be able to focus on their core mission,” explained Henrik Jerregård, Product Manager at Westermo.“ In this case, Qtagg has applied a network solution that allows their propulsion systems to operate concurrently to ensure that fuels costs and emissions are minimised.

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