Electrically assisted turbocharging provides additional boost when exhaust energy is insufficient and effectively eliminates turbo lag
Among the sustainable fuels under development, Rolls-Royce Power Systems ((RRPS) identifies e-methanol as one of the most promising for marine propulsion. Produced from renewable energy sources, e-methanol, also known as ‘green’ methanol, enables CO2-neutral operation while significantly reducing harmful emissions such as nitrogen oxides and particulates. Compared with other sustainable fuels, e-methanol also offers a relatively high energy density, making it especially attractive for shipping applications.
Through the publicly funded meOHmare project, RRPS developed what it calls the ‘world’s first spark-ignited methanol engine in the 2,000-kW class’, based on the 16V4000 platform. This pioneering engine demonstrates that high power output and sustainable operation can coexist.
Parallel to this, the company is continuing single-cylinder test-bench trials to develop a dual-fuel combustion process in which methanol is ignited by a small pilot diesel injection. This bridging technology will allow significant CO2 savings, even before methanol is available in sufficient quantities to run engines exclusively on the renewable fuel.
“Future turbocharger development will focus on increasing efficiency”
RRPS’s perspective is that true decarbonisation is not just about cleaner fuels but holistic system integration. Every component, from fuel injection to turbocharging, must operate in harmony to maximise efficiency.
A prime example is the new 12-cylinder mtu Series 2000M96Z engine for yachts and fast vessels. Delivering 1,634 kW, it offers an 11% increase in power over the previous 12V 2000M96X, while maintaining virtually identical dimensions. The achievement stems from improved turbocharger performance, enhanced crankcase and cylinder head design, and newly developed pistons. The engine is approved for operation with sustainable hydrogenated vegetable oil, known also as HVO fuel, and meets IMO II and EPA Tier 3 recreational certifications.
“Future turbocharger development will focus on increasing efficiency through advanced materials, improved aerodynamics, and optimised bearing systems to reduce friction and thermal losses,” explained RRPS vice president, fluid systems design, Kapil Verma.
