Wartsila introduces the Sulzer Zzz

The medium-speed market has long been influenced by five major marques Š Wartsila, MAN B&W, MaK, Sulzer and Pielstick. Of these arguably MaK is the odd one out, since MAN B&W has a majority share in Pielstick ,and Wartsila and New Sulzer Diesel are part of the same company.

Yet there are increased signs that changes in the market will affect these five builders, leaving only three to supply commercial shipping with larger medium-speed units. All of the builders are affected by the need to reduce costs, as prices remain poor, although some have a greater need than others do. It is this aspect that is concentrating minds among the engine builders, rather than investing in further technical developments.

One aspect that will be key to continued commercial success is the ability to reduce duplication and gain from production synergies. While MaK is now part of the larger Caterpillar Corp, there are no major overlaps in the groupÕs portfolio. This does not absolve MaK of the need to maintain tight control on costs, but it may leave it more room to manoeuvre than its competitors.

For MAN B&W the problem is slightly different. In commercial shipping PielstickÕs strength was long associated with ferry newbuildings, especially in Japan, but as an engine builder it enjoys more success meeting military requirements. To this extent any overlap between Pielstick and MAN B&W is small, but the development of further engines poses a potential challenge.

With the formation of Wartsila NSD the simplistic solution seemed inevitable. Wartsila could concentrate on the development and building of medium-speed units while its Swiss sister would produce low-speed designs. The Motor Ship was at the forefront of raising this possibility, but Wartsila has always hotly denied the intention. Despite WartsilaÕs public objections, the matter was keenly debated within the company, but the decision to cease SulzerÕs role in medium-speed units has never been announced.