The Norwegian Epic’s powerplant has been provided by Caterpillar – three MaK 12 M 43 C and three MaK 16 M 43 C v-type engines, according to Caterpillar Marine Power Systems.
The six engines meet DNV Clean Design requirements with reduced NOx emissions and rely on a lower cylinder rating to decrease fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, the manufacturer said in a prepared statement. This is accomplished through the long-stroke engine design combined with Flexible Camshaft Technology (FCT), which is reported to achieve synergy between flexible fuel systems and advanced air systems with maximum utilization of the current engine design. With FCT, valve timing changes at part load to raise effective compression and enhance complete combustion. The result with the M 43 C engine is invisible smoke emissions at any load point, even with economical burning of heavy fuel oils, according to Caterpillar..
The diesel-electric set up generates a total of 79.8 MW for ship propulsion and onboard electricity supply. The engines drive high-torque density induction motors fed by PWM converters, which were supplied by Converteam. This installation reduces overall acoustic noise and vibration levels. Additionally, because of the collaboration between Caterpillar and Converteam, the diesel electric power plant will reduce maintenance time and overall life cycle costs for NCL.
The engines were built by Caterpillar Motoren GmbH & Co KG, and the project management was in the hands of Caterpillar in Hamburg and Kiel. France-based MaK dealer Moteur Marine was responsible for installation and start-up and US-based MaK dealer Louisiana Machinery Power Systems will provide future engine service. They are all part of a powerful team, which, with its know-how and enthusiasm, will add to the continued success of NCL.
The engines all passed comprehensive testing at Caterpillar Motoren’s facility in Rostock. All crucial parameters related to pressure, temperature, vibration, noise, heat radiation, fuel consumption and emissions have met or exceeded the specified values, Caterpillar stated, and added that the vessel made numerous sea trials throughout the build process and exceeded expectations.
Leif Gross, sales director Global Cruise Projects at Caterpillar Marine Power Systems in Hamburg, commented: “The design of the VM 43 C makes it a perfect match for cruise ships. Considering forthcoming IMO II regulation and increased environmental standards in general, it is essential for us to build in capability for both extra power and emissions reduction well beyond current standards.”
M 43 C MaK engines are also installed in the new ships of AIDA, Holland America Lien and Cunard.
