Vroon reports success for multi-engine optimiser

The trial on the Ulstein PX121 design vessel documented fuel savings through mechanical fuel metering and simulation algorithms that displayed the results on the bridge, in the engine room and at shore locations. The results showed that MEO could save around 100,000 litres of fuel a year on the vessel, providing a valuable cost reduction for charterers.

The MEO allows ship operators to use each engine at an independent load factor, as opposed to running all engines on the same load based. It uses proprietary fuel maps and patented control algorithms to advise the power management system on the optimum combination of engines and engine load points that will consume the least amount of fuel.

Real-time feedback enables clients to look at the value of using the MEO-enabled ship compared to older vessels with common engines and common power-management strategies. The system could enable operators to reduce installed power as the optimised running can be factored in at engine selection stage.

Caterpillar noted that, depending on vessel workload and operational requirements, use of the MEO can drive double-digit percentage fuel savings.