Wärtsilä boosts ammonia engine power to match LNG

Marine engine manufacturer Wärtsilä has increased the power of its four-stroke ammonia dual-fuel engine to match that of its LNG dual-fuel engine.

IMAGE: Getty Images

“A key benefit of the upgrade is that fewer cylinders are required for a given power demand, which will reduce installation complexity and simplify maintenance,” Wärtsilä said.

The power increase has also enhanced the engine’s “retrofitability” for conversion between LNG and ammonia propulsion, it added, noting that this will give shipowners “greater flexibility in fuel choice.”

Wärtsilä’s move to add flexibility reflects a broader industry shift to hedge against uncertainty in low- and zero-emission fuel pathways, as IMO rules remain in flux.

Recently, Hong Kong-based shipowner Pacific Basin cancelled orders for four methanol-capable vessels and shifted back to conventional-fuelled tonnage, citing “renewed uncertainty around the timing and final shape” of the IMO’s net-zero framework.

However, it has retained optionality through an agreement with Japan’s Mitsui & Co to purchase two methanol-capable newbuilds by 2027, with possible deliveries between 2030 and 2031.

By Konica Bhatt

Please get in touch with comments or additional info to news@engine.online