Dynamic performance of a highpressure direct injection methanolfueled engine

The maritime energy transition will have an immense impact on the vessels currently under construction. The upcoming legislation will force vessels to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions significantly. This will result in a switch to fuels of a non-fossil origin (e.g. biomass and/or carbon from air). The preference is for simple and short molecules as these are more efficient/less energy intensive to make. Methane, methanol, hydrogen, and ammonia are the main candidates for the world fleet depending on the application.

Methanol is a strong contender for use in work vessels such as dredgers. Dredging vessels often have a large crew and operate close to populated areas (in ports and coastal areas), therefore toxicity, environmental impact and safety of the fuel are important. The energy density of methanol and the ability to store it at atmospheric conditions ensure the lowest impact on the vessel’s autonomy. The highly transient load profile of dredging vessels places strict requirements on the integration of the engine in the drive system.

The objective of the research in this paper is to investigate the integration of the Wärtsilä 32 methanol dual-fuel engine in the drive system of existing and future dredging vessels. To determine the integration potential and limitations, both static and dynamic engine tests have been performed on the Wartsila 32 methanol engine. The transient capabilities of the engine are compared to the operational profiles of dredging vessels. The research includes the potential requirements for energy storage systems to ensure the same or better performance of the vessels operation.