Engine performance optimization (manual)

It is assumed that most ship- and engine types, and ages have an improvement potential in optimization of engine efficiency, except for a few “best in class” players including occasional special cases. Also, both two- and four stroke engines, mechanic and electronic, are eligible for optimization, and the principle do not change much with use of different fuels either.

Description of the application of the improved balance of the cylinder pressures, and maximum combustion pressures closer to the rated values in order to optimizing the engines can be found in Engine performance optimization (automatic).

To evaluate the potential for reduced fuel consumption, it is necessary to test the engine’s condition and performance using accurate tools and methods, ensuring that conditions are comparable to sea trial performance data. Any identified areas for improvement should be addressed, and results should be verified through subsequent testing.

Regarding the tool to be used for measurement of cylinder pressures, the minimum required quality is advised to be an electronic combustion analyser. The analyser should provide the reader with a full overview of the combustion cycle and the pressure development presented in both absolute numbers and graphs, with possibility to zoom in/out and compare multiple cylinders. See below for examples.

All cylinders’ pressure development over 360 degree crank rotation from actual cylinder pressure measurement on-board a vessel. Source: DNV

Zoom in of the compression pressure (Pcomp) and maximum combustion pressure (Pmax) from actual cylinder pressure measurement on-board a vessel. Source: DNV

The cost of implementation is estimated to $4,000 – $12,000 (USD).

Variable cost will come in addition to the cost of the measurement tool relating to education/training, establishing the methodology and needed procedures, carrying out the job itself, establishing software analysis and -trending tools.

The estimated reduction potential is estimated to be about 1-3% of total ship fuel consumption.

The changes in engine settings to optimize an engine with regards to efficiency differs from case to case and engine type to engine type, but the one of the most typical changes is setting of the fuel injection timing. In terms of absolute fuel consumption reduction, it is evident that the larger two stroke propulsion engines possess the largest absolute fuel reduction potential.