Largest dual-fuel engines ordered by American shipping company
Graphical rendering of one of the proposed Matson container newbuildings (Photo: Matson)
With a length of approximately 260m, the vessels will be the largest Jones Act container ships ever constructed. They are designed to operate at speeds in excess of 23 knots. Matson also states that the new vessels will incorporate a number of ‘green ship technology’ features such as a fuel-efficient hull design, dual-fuel engines, environmentally safe double-hull fuel tanks and freshwater ballast systems. The deal includes an option for three further vessels. The two vessels will be powered by two MAN B&W 7S90ME-GI dual-fuel engines, which are the largest dual-fuel engines ever ordered in terms of power output with each engine developing 42,700 kW. The ME-GI engines and pertaining systems will be manufactured by MAN Diesel Turbo’s licensee, Hyundai, and will be able to use HFO, MDO or LNG as fuel.
MAN Diesel & Turbo reports that the 7S90ME-GI uses the diesel cycle to maintain high efficiency, with no need for any derating. The company also states that the engine by virtue of its diesel operating principle will have negligible methane slip and no need for restrictive load ramps or other knock-preventing measures. MAN Diesel and Turbo view the order as yet another significant step in the adoption of its dual-fuel technology by the marine market.
