Revolutionizing Power: MAN Energy Solutions Unveils the Next Generation of Methanol Engines

Image Credits: man-es

In an exciting development for the maritime industry, MAN Energy Solutions is set to unveil the most powerful two-stroke methanol engine by June 2025.This powerhouse, known as the MAN B&W 12G95ME-C10.5-LGIM (Liquid Gas Injection Methanol), boasts a staggering output of 82,440 kW at 80 rpm and is currently being crafted by CSSC-MES Diesel Co., Ltd. in China.

This engine marks the first of twelve destined for a fleet of massive container ships—specifically, twelve vessels each capable of carrying 24,000 TEU. Seven are under construction at Nantong COSCO KHI Ship Engineering Co.,Ltd. (NACKS) for Orient Overseas Container Line Ltd. (OOCL), while five are being built at dalian COSCO KHI Ship Engineering Co., Ltd. (DACKS) for COSCO Shipping Lines Co., Ltd. Each unit will incorporate MAN’s innovative EGRTC emissions system—the largest exhaust gas recirculation setup ever seen in a two-stroke engine.

Bjarne Foldager, who leads the Two-Stroke Business division at MAN Energy solutions, shared his enthusiasm: “Our mission—‘Moving Big Things to Zero’—drives our innovation in engine technology that embraces future fuels like methanol. This groundbreaking milestone with our powerful methanol engine brings us closer to achieving zero-emission solutions in shipping.” He expressed gratitude towards partners CMD, OOCL, and COSCO Shipping for their collaboration on this journey.

Christian Ludwig from MAN’s Two-Stroke Sales team added that interest in methanol as a fuel option has surged as we transition toward multi-fuel systems: “We’ve secured over 230 ME-LGIM references through new builds and retrofits that have collectively run more than 600,000 hours on methanol alone! With nearly ten years of ME-LGIM technology under our belt, it’s clear we’re equipped to support shipping’s shift towards lower carbon emissions.” He emphasized that using renewable sources for methanol can lead to carbon-neutral propulsion—a meaningful advantage offered by this advanced technology.

Let’s dive into what makes the ME-LGIM special:

The dual-fuel ME-LGIM was designed specifically for both conventional fuels and methanol use; it builds upon MAN’s established ME-series engines which number around 8,500 globally. Operating on green methanol allows these engines to provide carbon-neutral power suitable for large commercial vessels.

Interestingly enough, there have been successful operations with methanol carriers utilizing similar engines over many years now; thus far they’ve demonstrated exceptional reliability and impressive fuel efficiency.

In summary? The future looks shining with innovations like these paving the way toward sustainable maritime practices!