MAN Diesel & Turbo is planning to launch its own research project entitled “Clean Ship”. The aim is to create a propulsion concept for ships that delivers significantly increased efficiency and extremely low emissions. Compared to conventional four-stroke propulsion systems, the aim is to cut CO2 emissions by 40 per cent, nitric oxides (NOx) by over 85 per cent and other harmful and particle emissions virtually to zero.

Unlike previous propulsion systems that have mostly been powered by heavy fuel oil, “Clean Ship” intends to use gas-powered engines. Until now, it has not been possible to use purely gas-powered engines in ships due to the large fluctuations in load requirements. The exceptions to this are dual-fuel engines, which can be operated both with gas or liquid fuels as marine diesel oil or heavy fuel oil. The unrestricted use of gas power can reduce NOx emissions by around 85 per cent; SOx can be reduced almost completely, to just one per cent of their current values. The engine improvements will contribute to a CO2 saving of around 20 per cent.

The efficient design of the ship is also intended to achieve as much again. This includes the optimised alignment of the ship’s shape, propellers – these are also developed by MAN Diesel & Turbo – and machine auxiliary systems equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation and control technology as well as perfection of the use of waste heat.