New MaK engine targets DF propulsion market

A fresh contender in the dual-fuel medium speed engine arena recently announced by Caterpillar Marine Power Systems, the MaK M46 DF design, is under test at the US group’s facility in Rostock, Germany, for planned initial deliveries in 2014.

Available in in-line and vee-cylinder configurations, the 460mm-bore/610mm-stroke engine is rated for 900kW per cylinder at 500/514 rpm in diesel and gas fuel modes. Mechanical and electric drive propulsion applications can be targeted.

The M46 DF will be able to alternate between gas and diesel modes (marine diesel or heavy fuel oil) during operation, allowing vessels to be deployed in all geographical areas. In gas mode, Caterpillar claims ‘industry-leading’ fuel consumption and compliance with IMO Tier III NOx emissions as well as EPA Tier 4 emissions regulations.

An important consideration in development was to enable retrofits of existing MaK M43C diesel engine installations, the M46 DF engine sharing the same footprint and system interfaces as its successful 430mm-bore sibling.

“The new engine was designed to provide operators with industry-leading thermal efficiency for lowest total cost of operation,” asserts Detlef Kirste, MaK product definition manager. “It offers optimised load response and load stability in addition to numerous support features, such as remote monitoring and engine system diagnostics to assist operators with routine service and maintenance work.”

The M46 DF series represents a challenge for Wärtsilä’s 50DF and MAN Diesel & Turbo’s 51/60DF medium speed designs in LNG carrier propulsion business as well as in contesting anticipated opportunities for gas engines in diverse cargo and passenger ship sectors.

• Caterpillar Inc and Anqing CSSC Diesel Engine Co. have agreed to form a joint venture to manufacture MaK medium speed marine engines for customers in China and the Asia Pacific region (see page 38). MP