WinGD to install VCR technology on NYK newbuilds

Switzerland-based marine power company, WinGD, will make the first commercial installations of its new variable compression ration (VCR) technology on two new dual-fuel LNG-powered vessels under construction for Japan’s NYK Line.

A 95,000dwt bulk carrier being built at Oshima Shipbuilding Co Ltd, and a 7,000-CEU pure car and truck carrier (PCTC) under construction at Shin Kurushima Dockyard Co Ltd will be the first two-stroke-powered vessels that can dynamically optimise combustion depending on the fuel being used – delivering improved emissions, fuel economy and fuel flexibility, the engine company has revealed.

The technology was introduced in June after more than ten years of joint development undertaken with Mitsui E&S DU. The hydraulic system, mounted on the piston crosshead, represents a breakthrough in two-stroke engine design. It is the first time that the compression ratio can be adjusted to provide emission reductions of about 6% in diesel mode and around 3% when running on gas.

Marcel Ott, WinGD’s general manager Application & Technical Sales, commented: “NYK Line has long been a valued development partner, entrusting WinGD with innovative, sustainability driven projects, including recently our first system integration project. Strong partnerships make sustainable ships, and it is fitting that this collaboration has now resulted in the first deployments of VCR, a technology that we believe can have a huge impact on performance of our X-DF LNG-fuelled engines.”

The bulk carrier will be powered by a WinGD 6X62DF-2.1 engine and is due for delivery in 2025. The PCTC, expected to be delivered in 2026, will mark the first deployment of the company’s new 62-bore short-stroke engine, with a WinGD 7X62DF-S2.0 engine installation.

VCR technology is currently available as an option for 62-bore and 72-bore X-DF engines. It has no impact on engine footprint or installation requirements, the engine company said.