The increasing use of LNG as a marine fuel is further emphasised with the latest order for Wärtsilä’s dual-fuel engine technology. A new cement carrier being built at the Scheepswerf Ferus Smit yard in the Netherlands will feature a 6-cylinder Wärtsilä 34DF main engine, making it the first bulk carrier to adopt Wärtsilä’s multi fuel capability.
The ship has been ordered by JT Cement, a joint venture between Erik Thun AB of Sweden and KG Jebsen Cement of Norway. In addition to the main engine, Wärtsilä will also supply an enclosed Gas Valve Unit (GVU) for easier installation and additional engine room safety. The order with Wärtsilä was placed in August.
By opting for Wärtsilä’s proven dual-fuel (DF) technology, the vessel will be able to operate on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and a choice of other fuels, including marine diesel fuel, bio fuel and heavy fuel oil. In gas mode, the engine fulfils the IMO’s Tier III requirements without need of any after treatment systems. This is especially important since the ship will operate in Northern European waters, meaning that it will spend time in Sulphur Emission Control Areas (SECA).
“ The arguments in favour of gas fuel are so strong that it is no surprise that more and more vessel types are adopting its use. LNG is no longer a ‘niche’ fuel for a few specific types of ship; nowadays virtually all merchant vessels can take advantage of the environmental and cost saving benefits that LNG fuel offers. Wärtsilä is proud to be a technology leader in making this possible ,” says Lars Anderson, Vice President, 4-Stroke Sales, Wärtsilä Ship Power.
Wärtsilä has long standing relationships with both the shipyard and Erik Thun AB, having supplied a number of engines to these customers in the past. The current vessel is scheduled for delivery before the end of 2015. There is a possibility that a second cement carrier will be built as part of this particular series.