German engine manufacturer MAN Energy Solutions has announced its plans to introduce a dual-fuel version of its MAN 175D high-speed engine, capable of operating on methanol. Designated MAN 175DF-M, the new variant will be available by the end of 2026, offering new-build and retrofit options to meet the evolving demands of the maritime industry.
The MAN 175DF-M engine has already been awarded the ‘fuel ready’ certificate by DNV, highlighting its readiness to embrace dual-fuel methanol technology. This certification ensures the engine is optimized for diesel-mechanical and diesel-electric propulsion to achieve the largest methanol share and best efficiency for various applications and load profiles.
“The MAN 175D has proven to be very competitive in terms of sustainability and efficiency with the lowest fuel consumption, lowest lube-oil consumption, and longest overhaul times in its class, minimizing its environmental footprint. In terms of future fuels, the next logical step, apart from being able to run on 100% bio-fuels, is to ensure methanol combustion,” said Florian Keiler, Head of High Speed, MAN Energy Solutions.
The 175D engine is a recent addition to MAN Energy Solutions’ high-speed maritime sector. It is one of the key pillars of its efforts to develop a methanol-ready engine portfolio in response to the increasing demand for environmentally friendly propulsion systems in the maritime sector.
With its success in achieving series approval for its two-stroke engines, the company has used this experience to develop an optimized solution for its four-stroke engines, including successful single-cylinder testing. The results of these efforts will drive the upcoming development and validation of the dual-fuel PFI (Port Fuel Injection) technology for its methanol-ready 175D engine.
“Based on numerous exchanges with customers, we came to the conclusion that the dual-fuel principle, reliability, efficiency, a high methanol share, competitive life-cycle costs, and maximum achievable output were key requirements for the 175DF-M’s development,” Keiler continued in the press release. “Therefore, after conscientious investigation and consideration, we settled upon the PFI combustion technology as the most favorable. Fundamental combustion development will start in 2024, leading up to a first field test of the methanol engine in 2026. The MAN 175DF-M engine will subsequently be ready for sales release at the end of 2026.”
According to MAN Energy Solutions, PFI is considered to be the most advanced technology available today. Its development aims to achieve the highest methanol share over a wide power range while also achieving the highest cylinder output in its high-speed engine class. The engine’s optimization for diesel-electric multi-engine plants will allow the operation of the engines at an optimal load point, achieving the highest methanol share.
As a result, the use of biofuels in the MAN 175DF-M’s engine can help reduce the engine’s carbon footprint to zero while maintaining fuel flexibility for operation anywhere in the world, which is in line with the global push towards sustainable shipping practices.
Meanwhile, the MAN 175D high-speed engine is available in three variants with 12, 16, and 20 cylinders with 175 mm bore for mechanical or electric propulsion and onboard power generation. Running from 1,500 to 2,000 rpm, it features ratings from 1,440 to 4,400 kW. The engine is specially designed for powering ferries, offshore supply vessels, tugboats, and other working vessels. It also has customized versions available for specific market areas, such as super yachts and naval marine applications.
In conclusion, the announcement of the dual-fuel methanol MAN 175D engine by MAN Energy Solutions is a significant stride towards greener maritime propulsion. With its focus on sustainability, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology, the company aims to help the maritime industry become more environmentally friendly.
