MAN Energy Solutions has been testing an engine-control system for dual fuel engines with a new feature known as ‘ME-GA-opti’ for optimal engine operation through individual cylinder control.
The first LNG carrier in a series currently under construction by Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) in Korea has completed gas trials. Originally ordered in mid-2021 and scheduled for delivery in July 2023, the ship is powered by MAN B&W ME-GA dual-fuel engines capable of running on fuel oil and LNG, and comes with Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) for emission reduction. It is the first vessel to feature the new ME-GA opti system.
Bjarne Foldager, SVP and Head of Two-Stroke Business, MAN Energy Solutions, said: “MAN Energy Solutions has always played a leading role in developing ground-breaking technologies that add value to our customers’ operations. Thus we have made EGR standard for the ME-GA, thereby reducing methane slip compared to first-generation Otto-cycle engines without EGR, which simultaneously improves fuel efficiency in both gas and fuel-oil operation. ME-GA-opti continues this trend and will further boost the ME-GA’s reputation.”
Thomas S Hansen, Head of Promotion and Customer Support, MAN Energy Solutions, said: “ME-GA-opti is the latest and most advanced control feature for the ME-GA engine and significantly improves its operation. It comprises an advanced and intelligent network of control algorithms that have been developed to optimise the combustion process on an individual-cylinder basis, and which ensure optimal operating conditions. I’m certain it will be received well by the market.”
ME-GA-opti’s intelligent functionality is said to benefit engine performance in several ways, including by:
- ensuring optimised conditions for the combustion process by reducing the influences of ambient temperature, pressure and humidity that can influence Otto-cycle engines;
- enabling maximum and stable gas potential for the engine;
- reducing fuel-ratio control activation – ME-GA-opti is able to adapt the engine’s running conditions as the combustion moves towards the pre-ignition limit.
