In a recent development, the Swiss marine power company WinGD is set to trial its new variable compression ratio (VCR) technology aboard a vessel operated by the French shipping heavyweight CMA CGM.
This collaboration marks “the first field test” for the new dual-fuel engine technology, according to a statement from the company. It follows a series of ‘successful’ factory tests, which have reportedly demonstrated improvements in efficiency using diesel as well as LNG fuels.
The project, comprising a long-term full-scale test, will begin after the dry-docking of a CMA CGM vessel, scheduled for September 2024.
Developed in June 2023 in collaboration with Japanese Mitsui E&S DU Co (MESDU) , WinGD’s VCR technology, which dynamically adjusts the cylinder compression ratio based on factors such as fuel selection, ambient conditions and engine load, is said to be a ‘huge’ advancement in dual-fuel engine efficiency.
Initially available for very specific engine models, namely the X72DF, X62DF as well as short-stroke X62DGF-S engines, VCR technology has been designed to enhance performance while reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions at the same time.
Moreover, CMA CGM, committed to sustainability and innovation, views the trial of WinGD’s VCR technology as ‘a crucial step’ toward their goal, which is to achieve Net Zero Carbon by the year 2050.
Speaking about the collaboration, WinGD Vice President R&D, Sebastian Hensel , highlighted:
“Partnering with leading shipping companies is vital to prove the benefits of new technologies in real-life operating conditions. We applaud CMA CGM for their vision in promoting sustainable shipping and for recognizing the potential for VCR to further these ambitions.”
It is estimated that the VCR technology could be able to enhance operational flexibility while reducing fuel consumption. On top of that, VCR is said to have been engineered to minimize methane slip—a common issue with dual-fuel engines running on LNG.