Engine Air Compression System Boosts Fuel Efficiency 3-6%

June 28, 2023

Cross section view of the VCR system. Image courtesy NYK
Cross section view of the VCR system. Image courtesy NYK

NYK will install a variable compression ratio system (VCR system) on two large LNG-fueled coal carriers to be built at Oshima Shipbuilding. The vessels are scheduled to be delivered by the end of 2025, and NYK reports this will be the first time for VCR systems to be installed on vessels, including existing vessels that use heavy fuel oil as their main fuel.

The VCR system can adjust the air compression ratio in the engine combustion chamber to an optimal balance according to engine power and LNG fuel properties. This optimal adjustment will improve fuel efficiency during operation by about 3% in LNG gas mode and about 6% in diesel oil mode.

The system is also expected to play an important role in reducing GHG emissions from existing ships and improving engine efficiency when decarbonized fuels are introduced.

Based on its technology and experience with large low-speed marine engines, Mitsui E&S DU Co., Ltd. developed the VCR system together with Winterthur Gas & Diesel Ltd.


Image courtesy NYK

Logistics News

Great Lakes Limestone Trade Up in June

Great Lakes Limestone Trade Up in June

Consilium Safety Group Appoints New Chairman of the Board

Consilium Safety Group Appoints New Chairman of the Board

AAL Shipping Unveils Sixth Heavy Lift Super B-Class Vessel

AAL Shipping Unveils Sixth Heavy Lift Super B-Class Vessel

MDL Leases Land for Peterhead Offshore Project Support Site

MDL Leases Land for Peterhead Offshore Project Support Site

Subscribe for Maritime Logistics Professional E‑News

Heatwave in Europe forces France to close schools and Italy to limit outdoor work
France closes schools due to heatwave that grips Europe and sea temperatures near Spain record high
Middle East flights suspended by airlines