Caterpillar, Inc. is continuing its focus on LNG engine technology as part of its ongoing commitment to develop environmentally clean, fuel-efficient engines for the marine industry.
This initiative will ensure the company’s marine-focused engines are in compliance with existing IMO II (and pending IMO III) emissions requirements and low-sulfur fuel regulations in emission-controlled areas.
Following the company’s 2011 introduction of the MaK M 46 DF, a dual-fuel engine platform for the commercial marine industry that will be available in 1st quarter 2014, Caterpillar is simultaneously developing a LNG-fueled, high-speed engine below 2 MW that will be designed primarily for electric propulsion with specific focus on offshore and ferry applications. Additional LNG plans include the development of a 320 mm bore size platform (M 3X DF), as well as platform considerations in the 2-3 MW range.
“This extended focus on LNG technology reflects our greater understanding of and response to current and future customer needs,” said Bob Hallengren. “These fuel-efficient, sustainable propulsion engines will offer enhanced performance, productivity, reliability and longevity while enabling our customers to meet ever-stricter emissions requirements.”
Caterpillar Marine’s extended LGN product line will ultimately provide customers with engines that are easier and less expensive to install, and will also offer a cost-effective retrofit option for engines in existing ships. Condition monitoring will be offered for shipboard engines no matter where they are operating, providing system simplicity for easier service and maintenance. The company also plans to offer additional training opportunities that will teach customers how to achieve greater operating efficiencies while reducing the total cost of ownership.
Caterpillar’s long-term goal is to sustain the traditional Cat and MaK marine engine attributes including reliability, safety and efficiency, while striving for highly-sustainable engine designs that are easy to service and maintain. Caterpillar will also continue its business focus on traditional main propulsion and single main propulsion systems to serve the needs of its long-established marine customers.
Caterpillar has participated in the gas market for more than 80 years within other businesses. With gas engine sales in excess of 20,000 units globally, Caterpillar is well established as one of the world’s leading gas engine manufacturers.