Wärtsilä and RINA present new propulsion arrangement
The new design requires a single engine for both propulsion and electric power generation (Source: Wärtsilä Corporation)
Technology group Wärtsilä and classification society RINA have announced a new propulsion arrangement that, they say, offers full redundancy, less machinery, lower capital expenditure, reduced operational complexity, and optimised fuel consumption.
According to the project partners, the new concept changes traditional ship design thinking and offers a highly efficient, future-proof alternative.
The conventional approach in ship design has been to use two-stroke engines for propulsion and four-stroke engines for electric power generation, the companies noted. The Wärtsilä / RINA arrangement, however, requires two four-stroke dual-fuel (DF) engines, with options for electric power back-up from batteries or a small DF generator when the ship is idle. The design can achieve a reduction of up to 50% from the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) reference level value, and immediate compliance with the IMO’s 2030 targets, Wärtsilä and RINA said in a joint statement. The arrangement features Wärtsilä 31DF engines operating with LNG fuel.
At current shipping speeds, the system performance of the new arrangement provides at least the same, or better efficiency than an equivalent two-stroke design, the companies claim. At slower speeds, it has the potential to reduce fuel consumption and emission levels even further. Overall, the arrangement is as easy and less costly than traditional two-stroke propulsion systems. Both Wärtsilä and RINA emphasise sustainability in their strategies and values, with a common desire to optimise the technological and operational aspects of the marine industry.
