Successful trials for PM filter on coastal ferry

A diesel particulate filter developed by Mitsui OSK Lines and Akasaka Diesels of Japan has reportedly demonstrated a capability to remove over 80 per cent of particulate matter from the exhaust of a heavy fuel oil-burning engine. The DPF was installed to serve the 9,267kW main engine of the coastal ferry Sunflower Kogane, operated by MOL Group company Diamond Ferry.

The device incorporates filters made of silicon carbide ceramic fibres, which remove PM from the exhaust gases. An internal heating system automatically burns off accumulated PM in the filter to prevent clogging, enabling continuous operation and avoiding the need for cleaning by crew.

MOL and Akasaka aim to upgrade the DPF to foster practical installations on the main and auxiliary engines of deepsea ships. MP