The PBL agreement signed in 2017 focuses on improving engine performance and efficiency among other areas of interest. This upgrade was part of ongoing talks and focused mainly on utilising the latest technology to improve the performance of one of the six Wärtsilä 9L46 engines.
The Wärtsilä 46 performance upgrade included the installation of a new compressor wheel and a camshaft replacement to allow for Miller inlet timing. These new features increased efficiency over a wide range of engine operations, which was particularly noticeable in the reduction of thermal load, an improved turbocharger speed margin and significant fuel savings.
Wärtsilä was able to show the effects of a performance upgrade on a Wärtsilä 46 engine. "We have gained savings in fuel consumption over the whole load range and for the optimised 75% load 6gr/kWh, which correspond to 3%. In addition, the improved combustion process will also improve the lifetime of the engine," says Mr Carbonera.
The upgrade resulted in fuel savings of 3%.
A marine performance upgrade package comes with many improvements and benefits. Perhaps the most important issue is the increased efficiency, which results in reduced fuel costs. There is also a higher operational flexibility thanks to the improved turbocharger speed margin; and the reduced exhaust gas temperatures lower the thermal load, which leads to reduced maintenance costs. Moreover, everything is compliant with IMO regulations.
Wärtsilä 46 performance optimisation, including a turbocharger upgrade from TPL77 A30 to TPL77 A32 and a camshaft replacement for Miller inlet timing.