US shipping firm TOTE’s two new 3,100TEU liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered containerships are set to receive the dual-fuel, low-speed 8L70ME-C8.2-GI engine.
The all-MAN engine package was recently delivered by Doosan to the US General Dynamics NASSCO, which is building the ships. The package includes the main engine aspirated by two TCA66 turbochargers and three 9L28/32DF auxiliary engines, which will feature a single TCR18 turbocharger.
According to MAN, the ME-GI engines will have no methane slip and will emit less CO2, NOx and SOx particulates, making them more environmentally friendly.
The ME-GI engine offers the option of using either heavy fuel oil (HFO) or gas as fuel.
TOTE president and CEO Anthony Chiarello said: “MAN’s engines and turbochargers will allow TOTE to maintain its commitment resourcefulness, reliability and responsiveness, while reducing our impact on the environment.
“We are excited to be the world’s first LNG-powered containership and the first to use MAN’s ME-GI engine.”
The company also stated that the operator’s crew would be trained to maintain the turbochargers.
The first vessel is scheduled to be delivered in the fourth quarter of 2015, while the second ship is expected to be delivered in 2016.
Following delivery, the 764ft vessels will be operated between Jacksonville in Florida and San Juan in Puerto Rico.
Image: The TCA66 turbocharger, one of two that will power the world’s first ME-GI engine. Photo: courtesy of MAN Diesel & Turbo.
