LNG Marine Engine Approved for Japanese Tug

Leading classification society ClassNK has granted approval to the design of the new 28AHX-DF dual-fuel engine developed by Niigata Power System. The new engine is slated to be used as the main engine on a new LNG tugboat being built by Keihin Dock for NYK Line. The vessel will be Japan’s first LNG fueled vessel, excluding LNG carriers. Niigata’s 28AHX-DF is a medium-speed duel-fuel engine with a maximum rated power per cylinder of 320kW and was developed for use primarily in offshore support vessels and tugboats. The engine, which operates on both diesel fuel and LNG, will meet the strict 0.1 percent sulfur emissions regulations in the emission control area (ECA) that are set to go into effect in 2015, as well as comply with the IMO’s stringent Tier III NOx emission requirements. Technologies used in the new engine were developed with the support of Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transportation & Tourism (MLIT), as well as ClassNK as part of the society’s Joint R&D for Industry Program. The model engine will undergo trial operational testing in December.