DNV (Det Norske Veritas) classification society now offers shipowners the support they need to make newbuilds and existing vessels ‘LNG ready’ with class approved designs, ready for later, simple retrofit of LNG technology. The service enables shipowners to make smart choices and minimal investments now in readiness for when LNG bunkering becomes widely available.  Shipowners are supported through all stages of the decision-making process as they prepare to meet the IMO air emission regulations entering into force from 2015. There are three obvious technology options for meeting Emission Control Area (ECA) requirements: installing a scrubber, switching to low sulphur fuel oil or to go for LNG as fuel and installing gas engines. Alternative fuels such as methanol and biofuels are also being developed.  “Each option has different uncertainties, for example the relative immaturity of some technologies and the effect market forces will have on the price of the d... [More]

MAN Diesel & Turbo recently showcased its new range of gas engines and turbines at its Augsburg facility, including the 35/44G engine, the latest addition to its four-stroke power portfolio. The newly developed Otto gas engine has an electrical efficiency of 47.2%, and is available for combined heat and power (CHP) and/or jointly with an MAN steam turbine of the MARC series. It features a single-stage turbocharger with variable turbine area (VTA) technology and many innovative technological elements, the engine manufacturer said. The spark-ignited unit, which is said to be ideal for combined cycle and combined-heat and power configuration with waste-heat utilisation, has been developed to comply with all current emission limits solely by in-engine measures.  The 20V35/44G engine on a MAN Diesel&Turbo test bed in Augsburg, Germany Power density The 35/44G is offered in a V-type version with 20 cylinders and an output of 10,600 kW (10,200 kW). Its rated outputs – 530... [More]