Rolls-Royce Power Systems’ German subsidiary MTU Friedrichshafen is developing a new 16-cylinder gas-powered engine for the reverse stern drive (RSD) compressed natural gas (CNG) tug, which is currently under construction.
In June, Damen Shipyards, MTU and Denmark’s Svitzer partnered for the development of the new RSD CNG tug.
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The new gas engine will be based on MTU’s proven workboat series 4000 M63 diesel engine and will include a multi-point gas injection system, a dynamic engine control and an optimised safety concept.
Rolls-Royce Power Systems CEO Dr Ulrich Dohle said: “We are developing our new gas engine series in order to comply with the extreme load profile of the tug.
“In line with the clean burning concept and in compliance with IMO Tier 3 legislation, this engine ensures low emissions without after-treatment of exhaust gas.”
According to the company, the new generation series 4000 engine not only allows higher brake mean effective pressures for maximum efficiency, but also improves the use of natural gas for generating heat and power.
Claimed to be the first such product, the new RSD CNG tug prototype will be designed and developed to deliver reduced fuel costs and lower emissions, while making use of high power.
The new tug is slated for official launch in 2016.
Image: The new MTU 16-cylinder natural gas engine is based on the 4000 M63 diesel series. Photo: courtesy of Zamakona Yards.
