Engine de-rating a success on Höegh car carrier
Höegh Autoliners, Accelleron, and Hanwha Engine have completed a project to undertake engine part-load optimisation (EPLO) on board the 2006-built pure car truck carrier, Höegh Detroit. The success of the project will lead to similar EPLO modifications on board seven more vessels in the company’s fleet.
With fuel savings of 10 g/kWh, equivalent to about 5%, the 7,850-CEU vessel will now use significantly less fuel, saving money and boosting its carbon intensity indicator (CII) ratings. The modification will also reduce the company’s exposure to the EU Emissions Trading System through lower emissions.
Part of the project involved the installation of a new propeller. This enables the vessel to sustain the same service speed and lose no time, the Oslo-based vehicle carrier specialist said.
The three partners worked together on optimising engine tuning and turbocharger configuration. It was also necessary to install new components, including turbocharger nozzle rings, turbine blades, and compressor wheels.
Sobjørn Dahl, chief operations officer at Höegh Autoliners, commented: “Operating with lower engine power is one of several energy efficiency measures being deployed by Höegh Autoliners as part of our commitment to being a leader in sustainable deep-sea shipping. The fuel efficiency impact of EPLO optimisation on Höegh Detroit exceeded our expectations, safeguarding the vessel’s long-term energy efficiency and market value. We are confident of similar success in future EPLO projects.”
Accelleron’s Product Manager Upgrades, Matthias Reichmann, said: “The phenomenal efficiency improvement delivered for Höegh Autoliners shows that EPLO – when performed optimally and with an associated optimisation of turbochargers and engine settings – is among the best and most cost-effective solutions for reducing a vessel’s carbon intensity. Accelleron’s EPLO upgrade solution delivers peace of mind for shipowners dealing with complex decarbonisation demands, a simple and effective measure contributing to compliance with greenhouse gas regulation while benefitting from substantially reduced fuel costs.”