The company’s environmentally friendly solutions are also cost-effective
MaK Middle East, the factory direct parts and service arm of parent Caterpillar Motoren, has announced the next level of MaK branded eco-friendly and fuel efficient maritime propulsion system with its industry-leading LNG engines.
Relying on Caterpillar’s many years of experience with gas as a fuel for land based power; 2017-established Mac dual-fuel marine engines have successfully penetrated the maritime market, driving the industry’s adoption of gas technology.
“After much deliberation by shipping companies, LNG is now regarded as a bridge technology. Together with the International Maritime Organization (IMO)’s mandate for reduction in global emission limit on the seas, these have been the key drivers in the success of our LNG-fueled Mac engines,” commented Alan Naisby, Managing Director, Mac Middle East and Mac Asia.
Caterpillar Motormen’s addition of dual-fuel engines to its portfolio of Mac marine diesel engines was in the works even prior to Mac Middle East’s inception as a regional service provider. Currently there are nine cruise ships on order to be delivered with Mac dual-fuel engines.
According to Naisby, the appeal of the company’s LNG-powered engines includes its ability to start and run on gas versus diesel, meaning ships can leave the dock or harbour in cleaner-burning mode.
Additionally, the ability to operate on gas for extended periods in low load when only a fraction of the full power of the engine is required, is an important characteristic. These are both key features for cruise lines operating in heavily populated or environmentally sensitive areas, in Naisby’s estimation.
Caterpillar Marine’s product offering of green MaK solutions has effectively allowed the company to improve emissions and its clients’ fuel consumption system design technology has also played a major role in this area.
