MTU Engines Get IMO Certification

Rolls-Royce Power Systems announced that its latest generation of MTU Series 4000 engines equipped with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) for marine applications has successfully completed IMO Tier III certification tests. Representatives of the ABS, BV, DNVGL, KR, NK, LR and RS certification bodies initially tested the 20-cylinder version, which was awarded approval as being representative of the remaining versions. This means that the engines now comply with the emission regulations in accordance with IMO MARPOL Annex VI, IMO Tier III.

Through a variety of technical advances to the turbocharging system, the combustion process and the injection system, along with MTU’s new SCR system, NOx emissions have been reduced by 75% compared with IMO II and particulate emissions by 65% compared with EPA Tier 3, MTU said. An additional diesel particulate filter is not required. Also as a result of turbocharger improvements, MTU said it was able to reduce fuel consumption by a further 5% compared with the predecessor engine.

For yachts and patrol boats the engines are currently available from MTU as 12-, 16- and 20-cylinder versions with outputs from 2160 to 3900 kW.

The first yacht to be fitted with an IMO Tier III propulsion system from MTU (2 x 16V Series 4000 M73 engines + 2 x SCR systems) is currently under construction at the Istanbul-based Bilgin Yachts shipyard. The 80 m megayacht is scheduled to be commissioned in mid-2019.

For workboats such as tugs and ferries, MTU said it will gradually be introducing the engines complying with IMO Tier III and EPA Tier 4 emission regulations onto the market as 12-, 16- and 20-cylinder versions rated 1119 to 3220 kW.

MTU said it has already delivered the first EPA Tier 4 propulsion systems for new catamarans operated by the WETA (Water Emergency Transportation Agency) in California.