Svitzer, Caterpillar collaborate on biofuel pilots

Both EcoTow HVO and FAME pilots gave both Caterpillar and Svitzer an opportunity to study the effects of biofuel use on the engines and on Svitzer’s total cost of ownership.

“These engines are running on 100% biofuel, which is quite different from running on a blend,” said Caterpillar global strategy manager for the tug sector Andres Perez. “We worked hand-in-hand with Svitzer to understand the potential challenges that can come with handling a new fuel.”

Fuel cleanliness and quality, load response and overall engine health were all monitored. Caterpillar also provided maintenance recommendations and guidelines on what to look for to identify and address any abnormal component wear.

“We put in place a maintenance plan that allows Svitzer to look at parts wear as well as the condition of filters, gaskets, hoses – the kind of components that could be affected by exposure to a fuel other than diesel,” said Mr Perez. “We wanted to make sure we caught any trends early on related to the overall health of the engine.”

Understanding the impact of different types of biofuel used in tugs over periods of time will enable Svitzer to select which to use on tugs wherever they operate and where fuels are available.

“The availability and price of HVO and FAME vary around the world,” said Mr Perez. “Both could be a solution in different locations.”

Svitzer’s sustainability goals motivate it to use fuel with decreased carbon intensity. While biofuels do not significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions at the point of combustion, they can reduce the fuel’s lifecycle emissions, which provides an opportunity to support lower carbon intensity in the maritime industry.

Caterpillar is platinum sponsor of Riviera Maritime Media’s TUGTECHNOLOGY which returns 21-23 May 2023 in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Use this link for further information and to register your interest