Cummins gains AiP for methanol-ready engine

Ohio-based engine firm Cummins Inc has been granted Approval in Principle (AiP) for its methanol-ready IMO II and IMO III engine range, QSK60. The series is available in power ratings from 1.49MW to just over 2MW.

The methanol feature can be retrofitted and is likely to be available in retrofit kits from 2028 to align with market demand and infrastructure readiness, the company said in a statement. Designed for diesel-electric systems, the kits can be integrated with battery systems for greater efficiency and sustainability.

The AiP follows an August 2023 announcement from the company permitting the use of renewable diesel such as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) across its high-power engine range. By using such fuel in dual-fuel systems, ship operators can significantly reduce their carbon emissions, the company said.

Cummins executive director, Strategy, Product Planning & Digital, Dawn Weir, commented: “Using a retrofittable solution dismisses the need for a major vessel overhaul and creates an immediate positive impact on carbon-emissions reduction. With our continual work on developing solutions for other alcohol fuels, including ethanol, we are committed to providing solutions that work for different operations and fuel infrastructure availabilities to ensure ease of adoption.”