First MAN B&W 7S65ME-C in service

The first MAN B&W 7S65ME-C has entered service when the oil tanker ?Ice Explorer? was delivered by Universal Shipbuilding Corporation in Japan to the Greek shipowner in September. Although the S65ME-C engine is a direct result of close cooperation between MAN Diesel and the customer, it is tailor-made for efficient power production for a broad range of medium sized vessels, including bulk carriers and container ships.

A sister vessel, ?Ice Transport?, was delivered to the owner on 26 October, while the last one of the three vessels is scheduled to enter service in December 2006.

With power outputs from 14,350 kW up to 22,960 kW, this compact power unit presents owners with a range of cutting-edge technologies designed to optimize fuel use, reduce lube oil consumption, extend time between overhauls and lower overall maintenance costs. The electronic control gives precise control of the fuel injection and exhaust valve timing, thereby optimising fuel efficiency. This control is also helped through the adoption of innovative design enhancements that have been brought together in one package. Developments such as improved piston ring pack configuration, bore-cooled cylinder liners, better exhaust valve performance and combustion temperature parameters greatly improved through the use of the OROS-profiled piston crown all create conditions for optimal engine operation.