MAN 32/40 engine passes type-approval test for retrofits

The test took place at MAN’s Augsburg, Germany, works from 15-18 September with the participation of classification societies DNV GL, American Bureau of Shipping and Lloyd’s Register.

The type-approval test confirmed the suitability of the retrofit kit for converting the company’s MAN 32/40 engine into a dual-fuel unit – a so-called MAN 32/40R-DF type – that can now run on fossil and renewable, gaseous fuels, in addition to conventional fuel oil.

As a result of the pandemic, MAN said the type-approval test was primarily held online. Class representatives followed proceedings remotely and only visited the testbed on the final day for component inspection and certificate signing.

MAN Energy Solutions head of engineering Bernd Siebert said customers can now convert their existing fleet to gas and added "The momentum towards cleaner and less carbon-intensive fuels is building and we are excited to play our part in developing appropriate solutions."

The company said it had received requests from customers to retrofit their MAN 32/40CD engines for gas/dual-fuel operations.

With the successful TAT, the company has now developed a conversion-kit designed to operate primarily on gas (mainly boil-off gas). The new retrofit meets IMO Tier I emission limits and has been designed so the engine conversions can be carried out while dry-docking or sailing. The new retrofit package is now available for order.