Chevron receives NOL for WinGD marine engines

The test was done on WinGD 9X82 for over 4300h VLSFO. The feed rate during the test was 0.8 g/kWh. (Photo: WinGD)

Chevron Marine Products announced its Taro Ultra Advanced 40 oil has passed NOL (No Objection Letter) requirements by engine manufacturer WinGD.

Taro Ultra Advanced 40 is specifically designed to keep pistons clean at moderate BN and oil ash levels, eliminating the need to alternate with cylinder oils of higher and lower BN to help maintain cleanliness, said Chevron. The test validated the suitability of the oil for use in WinGD engines operating with liquid fuels containing sulphur in the range 0.00<1.50% m/m, which includes Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO).

The field test was carried out on a WinGD 9X82 low-speed engine while burning VLSFO. It showed the engine condition at end of testing as very clean with low wear and deposit levels, the announcement noted, resulting in the NOL being extended by the engine manufacturer to include Gas General Usage. The test also approved general usage of the oil when burning Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) in the company’s engines.

The engine condition at end of testing was very clean with low wear and deposit levels. (Photo: WinGD)

The test was the result of an ongoing collaboration between the two companies to develop engine lubrication options for WinGD customers, said Frank Venter, WinGD. He added that the company plans to continue to work closely with Chevron and other lubricant developers “to develop innovative solutions addressing the future fuel mix to meet the anticipated needs of our engines, changing legislation and the market in general.”

This latest test follows an earlier NOL award for Taro Ultra Advanced 40 from MAN Energy Solutions. Luc Verbeeke, Senior Staff Engineer, Chevron Marine Products, sees the successful testing by two leading engine manufacturers as “a clear endorsement of the oil’s ability to perform its core functions of lubrication, acid neutralization and cleanliness well.” He added that the company is implementing supply strategies to ensure the oil is available where customers need it.

In addition, as more ship operators take up high-performance 40 BN oils, Chevron plans to further expand its capabilities with the vision of having a global footprint. “We are continuing the testing process to ensure the product is similarly effective on a range of engine types, including those in early development,” said Verbeeke.