Chevron LNG carriers to convert to spark ignition

Among newbuilds which have been built for LNG fuel, there is now growing concern about methane slip – wherein unburned methane is emitted from ship funnels. This stands to mitigate a substantial portion of the CO₂ emissions reduction associated with LNG, by emitting a gas which is dozens of times more potent a global warming agent than CO₂.

LNG carriers now make up some of the oldest vessels to burn LNG as fuel, and the shipping industry is by now fully aware that methane slip is a major problem. With this in mind, Wärtsilä is embarking on a project to convert engines on six Chevron Transport Corporation LNG Carriers from dual-fuel (DF) to spark gas (SG) ignition, with the first order set to commence this year.

Using spark ignition rather than a diesel as a pilot fuel, Wärtsilä and Chevron hope the technology will more thoroughly combust the vessels’ methane fuel, leaving behind less unburned methane in the cylinder. 

“Chevron Shipping aims to reduce methane emissions intensity of our LNG fleet in support of a lower carbon future,” says Chevron Shipping president Barbara Pickering. “We are pleased to collaborate with Wärtsilä in this industry first. This demonstrates steps we are taking to reduce the carbon intensity of marine transportation."